The Los Angeles Lakers faced off against the Dallas Mavericks on Wednesday night, marking Luka Doncic’s first game back since the blockbuster trade for Anthony Davis just two months ago.
It was an emotional night all around, and the tears started flowing before tip-off. During player introductions, the Mavericks honored Doncic with a nearly three-minute tribute video. The 26-year-old Slovenian sat on the bench, as tears came down his face.
As the game got underway, Lakers center Jaxson Hayes was fouled by Mavericks forward Naji Marshall. It was only several minutes in when Dallas fans all chanted in unison: “Fire Nico.”
It’s clear that Mavericks fans are still upset with general manager Nico Harrison’s decision to trade Doncic. The move sent shockwaves through the fanbase and ultimately led to protests in early February.
Doncic was widely seen as the team’s franchise cornerstone, and when the trade happened, it surprised not just Dallas fans but the rest of the NBA world.
Los Angeles Lakers guard Luka Doncic (77).
© Kevin Jairaj-Imagn Images
Doncic spent six and a half seasons in Dallas, leading the team to the NBA Finals just last year. He’s a five-time All-Star, five-time All-NBA First Team selection, the 2019 Rookie of the Year, and last season’s scoring champ.
Entering Wednesday night, Doncic averaged 27.1 points, 8.1 rebounds, and 7.6 assists through 26 games in a Lakers uniform.
