A Fast-Rising Challenge for Luka Doncic
Just over three weeks after one of the most shocking trades in recent NBA history, Luka Doncic and the Los Angeles Lakers will face off against the Dallas Mavericks on Tuesday night. The trade that sent Doncic, a player who seemed destined for a lifelong commitment to Dallas, has sent ripples through the league. Doncic’s new teammates and coaches are confident that he will be ready for this high-stakes game, despite the tumultuous events of the past few weeks. "I think he’ll be fine," Lakers coach JJ Redick remarked. "Every day that he’s been with us, it’s becoming just a little bit more normal. I’ve been there. The first time you play your old team, particularly this close in time duration, it’s going to be weird. But he’ll be able to handle it."
Major Life Events in Rapid Succession
The speed at which this monumental matchup has arrived on the Lakers’ schedule is just another challenge for the Slovenian superstar. In February alone, Doncic has navigated the upheaval of a trade, the emotional toll of leaving a city where he achieved numerous accolades, and the physical challenge of returning to top form after a 6.5-week absence due to a strained calf. Despite the whirlwind, Doncic’s Lakers teammates are supportive and believe he will rise to the occasion. "I think he’s going to be excited, but everybody in the locker room is excited," said Dorian Finney-Smith, a former teammate of Doncic’s in Dallas. "We’ve got his back. It’s going to be a hard-fought game. I know Kidd is going to have them ready to come in here and compete, so we’ve just got to match their intensity."
Missing Key Players
This highly anticipated matchup will be marred by the absence of key players. Anthony Davis, who led the Lakers to the 2020 championship alongside LeBron James, is out for at least two more weeks with a groin injury he sustained in his first game with the Mavs. Davis, beloved in Los Angeles, is likely to feel the passionate support from the Lakers’ sellout crowd. Another notable absentee is Max Christie, the Lakers’ former second-round pick who thrived this season before the trade to the Mavs. A full on-court reunion will have to wait until April 9, when the Lakers visit Dallas.
Doncic’s Return to Form
Luka Doncic, who turns 26 on Friday, has played in only four games since returning to the court. His performance in these games has been a mix of promise and struggle. After two games played under a minutes restriction, Doncic had a rough third appearance, going 5 for 18 and hitting just one 3-pointer in a disheartening loss to Charlotte. The NBA’s hot-take machines were quick to question his game, but the Lakers remained unwavering in their support. "I knew it was going to come," Finney-Smith said. "Luka, I shoot with him all the time, so I knew there was nothing wrong with his shot. He just hadn’t played for a while. He ain’t played since Christmas, and guys want him to come back and be 30, 10, and 10, but it takes time for him. I’m just happy he’s finding his rhythm."
A Stellar Performance in Denver
Doncic took a significant step towards full strength with a stellar performance in Denver last Saturday. He scored 32 points, made four 3-pointers, grabbed 10 rebounds, delivered seven assists, and recorded four steals in the Lakers’ 123-100 blowout win over the Nuggets, a team that had been a tough match for Los Angeles in recent seasons. "When he made the first 3, I was like, ‘OK, he’s on it tonight,’" Lakers forward Rui Hachimura said with a grin. "I don’t know how much he’s 100% healthy, but he’s started to get back to his rhythm, so I’m happy for him."
A Unifying Moment for the Lakers
Despite the challenges, the Lakers are united in their support for Doncic. The team is focusing on the upcoming game against the Mavericks with a sense of determination and optimism. "I think Luka is going to bring his A-game, and we all need to step up and match that intensity," Redick emphasized. The atmosphere in the locker room is one of excitement and camaraderie, as the Lakers prepare to face the team that was once Doncic’s home. This game promises to be a pivotal moment in Doncic’s career, as he seeks to establish himself in his new environment while facing the team that shaped his early NBA years.
