Los Angeles Lakers star Luka Doncic was emotional during his return Dallas, but the emotions didn't stop him from scoring 45 points and leading his team to a win over the Mavericks 112-97.
Luka Doncic’s return to Dallas was packed with emotion, but the tears he shed during the pregame tribute video didn’t stop him from delivering one of his best performances of the season. The Slovenian star led the Los Angeles Lakers to a 112–97 win over the Dallas Mavericks, dropping 45 points, grabbing 8 rebounds, and dishing out 6 assists.
| Player of the Game | |
|
EFF
45
|
| Luka Doncic | |
| Points | 45 |
| Accuracy | 16-28 |
| Rebounds | 8 |
| Assists | 6 |
After the game, Doncic admitted he was overwhelmed by the emotional tribute and wasn't sure how he managed to play at such a high level.
"I don’t know how I did it," Luka said. "When I was watching that video, I thought, 'There’s no way I’m playing this game.'"
His emotions were on full display as he reflected on his years in Dallas.
"Everybody saw the way I reacted to the video. I really appreciate all the fans, all the teammates I’ve had—everybody who had my back. I love these fans, I love this city... but it’s time to move on," Luka reminisced his time in Dallas.
After a memorable 6.5-year run with the Mavericks—marked by playoff heroics and individual accolades—Doncic is now focused on building a new legacy in Los Angeles.
With the Lakers sitting third in the Western Conference at 49–31, they look poised to make a serious run at the NBA championship.
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