NBA.

Doncic destroys Mavericks with his first triple double with Lakers

The Slovenia captivated fans attention, alongside LeBron James. Fans at Crypto.com Arena were in awe of the two stars. Doncic expressed gratitude to the Dallas general manager, who prepared a special "gift" for his former player.

El escolta de los Lakers de Los Ángeles Luka Doncic (77) lanza sobre el escolta de los Mavericks de Dallas Klay Thompson (31) durante la segunda mitad de un partido de baloncesto de la NBA el martes 25 de febrero de 2025, en Los Ángeles. — Luka Doncic shoots over Dallas Mavericks point guard Klay Thompson Associated Press/LaPresseaps / Cordon Press

Published by

Israel Duro

February 26, 2025

4 minutes read

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On Tuesday, Luka Doncic exacted revenge against the Dallas Mavericks, the franchise that surprisingly traded him earlier this month, by leading the Los Angeles Lakers to a 107-99 win with his first triple-double for the team. The Slovenian phenom, who had previously starred for the Mavericks during his seven NBA seasons, channeled his frustration into a stellar performance, recording 19 points, 15 rebounds, and 12 assists.

The point guard struggled offensively, making only six of his 17 shots on basket, but he made a notable defensive impact with three steals and two blocks. "I don't know how to explain it," Doncic said in remarks picked up by AFP about the game against his former teammates. "I think in the first and second quarter I didn't know what was going on. It was just different. I can't even explain how I felt."

"I couldn't put anything in today," he said about his missed shots. "I'm just glad we got a win. I'm looking forward to going to sleep." Doncic and Austin Reaves, who scored 20 points, shouldered the Lakers' offensive load until Lebron James stepped up late in the game to secure the victory. The forward, playing exceptionally well at 40 years old, scored 16 of his 27 points in a frantic last quarter, helping the Lakers achieve their ninth win in the last 11 games.

Crypto.com Arena welcomed Doncic

Despite LeBron's impressive performance, the night was dominated by Doncic's reunion with the Mavericks, the franchise he led until the last Finals and where he had hoped to build his entire career.

The crowd at Crypto.com Arena cheered loudly for their new idol while also giving a standing ovation to Anthony Davis, the other major name in the trade, who made the move to Dallas after six years in Los Angeles.

Lakers fans pay tribute to Davis and thank Harrison for Doncic "gift"

The center, who sat on the bench due to an abdominal injury, was honored with a tribute video featuring his best moments with the Los Angeles franchise, especially highlighting the championship ring he won in 2020 alongside LeBron.

The mastermind behind the controversial deal, general manager Nico Harrison, was also present at the venue and received chants of appreciation from Lakers fans for bringing them Doncic, one of the league's most promising young stars at just 25 years old.

"Beyond basketball"

As soon as the game began, the Slovenian quickly displayed his extra motivation with several brilliant drives, a steal, and a strong protest to a referee who called a technical foul on him.

By the end of the first quarter, he had already racked up nine points, seven rebounds, and four assists, throwing several taunts toward the opposing bench after his baskets. The Slovenian also lived up to his nickname "Luka Magic" with a spectacular no-look assist for a three-pointer by Reaves.

Despite facing several significant disadvantages, the Mavericks continued to fight under the leadership of Kyrie Irving, who finished with 35 points and shared an on-court hug with Doncic. "Kai is my brother. That goes way beyond basketball. It was good to see all these guys," Doncic said.

LeBron's final surge sealed the victory for the Lakers, who now hold the fourth spot in the Western Conference and are emerging as a formidable playoff contender.

Cavs and Celtics extend streaks

In other results from Tuesday, the Cleveland Cavaliers and Boston Celtics, who are dominating the Eastern Conference, extended their winning streaks against the Orlando Magic and Toronto Raptors, respectively.

The Cavaliers, who own the league's best record with 48 wins and 10 losses, defeated the Magic 122-82, securing their eighth consecutive victory.

Meanwhile, the Celtics defeated the visiting Raptors 111-101, marking their sixth consecutive victory.

In Memphis, the Grizzlies emerged victorious in an offensive battle against the Phoenix Suns, winning 151-148 in overtime. Ja Morant scored the final 11 points for Memphis to force the extra period, finishing with a game-high 29 points and eight assists.