Luka Doncic dominates Mavs, helps Lakers clinch playoff spot

Los Angeles Lakers guard Luka Doncic. Kevin Jairaj-Imagn Images

Luka Doncic dominates in emotional return to Dallas, helps Lakers clinch playoff spot

By Noel Guerra | Last updated Apr 9, 2025 11:20 PM ET

Where were you when you saw the Shams Charania tweet that said the Dallas Mavericks have traded Luka Doncic? That night will live in NBA infamy. The trade is still as shocking as when it was first announced. Everything that has transpired has led to this moment: the first time Doncic plays in Dallas wearing Lakers' purple and gold.

This matchup had been circled by the public for months, but no one could anticipate what would happen on the court before, during and after the game.

The emotions were overwhelming for all parties. The fans showered Doncic with love during warmups, which was an indication as to how he would be perceived by the Dallas faithful. The biggest tear-jerking moment that occurred was the Mavs playing a tribute video for Doncic.

ALL THE FEELS FOR LUKA'S RETURN TO DALLAS ❤️

The Mavs honored Luka with a tribute video before he took the court with the Lakers pic.twitter.com/462QhwjDRC
— ESPN (@espn) April 9, 2025

Emotions flooded Doncic's face. The love is still there between him and the fans. This video was supposed to be played after he retired, but instead, he is wearing a different jersey while it plays.

The pregame event was the hard part. Once the game started, Doncic was a man on a mission. He scored 45 points (31 in the first half) with eight rebounds and six assists while leading the Lakers to a 112-97 victory.

The crowd was there to serenade their former superstar with all the cheers. As soon as he touched the ball and scored his first point, the fans made it feel like a home game for Doncic. However, that crowd also showered him with support by chanting "Fire Nico," which was aimed at the man who traded Doncic, Nico Harrison.

"It's a fanbase that feels cheated. He expected and I think he feels like was stabbed in the back because of the way it was done...You can feel it in this arena, the love they've got for this guy."

Doris Burke on Luka Dončić as Mavericks fans chant "FIRE NICO." pic.twitter.com/ZAzfpLigsE
— Awful Announcing (@awfulannouncing) April 10, 2025

This night was not the usual superstar return during their prime. We saw LeBron James and Kevin Durant return to face their former teams, but it was met with hostility. This return was a mixture of love and heartbreak. Doncic and the fans did not ask for this. However, this is their reality, and he gave the fans one last show until they meet again.

While this game meant a lot to Doncic and Mavericks fans alike, it was also crucial for the Lakers. Win the win, the Lakers are officially in the playoffs.

Lakers are Playoffs bound ️ pic.twitter.com/FkKP950vHe
— Los Angeles Lakers (@Lakers) April 10, 2025

At 49-31, the team occupies the third seed with two games left.

Noel Guerra

My name is Noel Guerra. I graduated from West Chester University in 2020 with a Bachelor's degree in Communications and Media Studies with a minor in Journalism. I love the NBA and MLB with a love for sports betting as well.

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