The first matchup between the Dallas Mavericks and Los Angeles Lakers after the shocking trade that sent Luka Doncic to LA and Anthony Davis to Dallas was bound to be emotional. While Davis sat out due to an adductor strain, all eyes were on Doncic as he faced his former team for the first time.
He came out firing, making his presence felt in the first half, but as the game wore on, he took a step back, allowing LeBron James to take charge when it mattered most. In the end, the Lakers secured a 107-99 victory, pulling away in the closing minutes as the Mavericks struggled to find answers offensively.
It’s easy to wonder how different this game could have been if the Mavericks were fully healthy. But for now, they’ll have to circle April 9th on their calendar—the next, and possibly even more heated, showdown between Doncic and his former squad.
1. Kyrie Irving Showed Out, But He Needs Help
Kyrie Irving did everything he could to keep Dallas in this one, dropping 35 points and knocking down five threes. He was the clear offensive engine, but that’s part of the problem—he didn’t have much backup in terms of shot creation.
Klay Thompson chipped in with 22 points, and Max Christie added 10, but beyond that? The Mavericks had little to offer. This is what happens when you trade away one of the NBA’s most gifted offensive players. Luka Doncic isn’t just an elite scorer—he’s a playmaker who elevates his teammates.
The Mavericks are feeling that loss in real-time. Anthony Davis’ eventual return will provide some relief, but even then, who’s creating for others when Irving isn’t on the floor? Basketball, like life, is often about opportunity. When a team lacks facilitators, players are left struggling to find their rhythm—something that’s crucial in any environment, whether on the court or in workplaces where collaboration matters.
2. Luka Doncic Had the Stats, But LeBron Had the Impact
Luka Doncic still put up a triple-double, but it was LeBron James who dictated the game when it mattered most.
The Mavericks threw a variety of defensive looks at Doncic in the second half, and while he adjusted by passing out of double teams, he was noticeably hesitant to hunt his own shot. Meanwhile, LeBron stayed in attack mode, racking up 27 points and keeping the Lakers’ offense afloat as the game got tight.
This is why LeBron, even at age 39, remains one of the most dominant forces in basketball—his ability to step up in critical moments. It’s the same kind of leadership that translates beyond sports. When things get tough, some people defer, while others take control. The lesson? Having talent is one thing, but knowing when to take charge is what separates the greats from the rest.
3. The April Rematch Will Be Must-Watch TV
If this game was intense, just wait until April 9th.
The emotions were already high: Doncic chirping at the Dallas bench, Lakers fans chanting “Thank you, Nico” while he shot free throws, and some heated moments between Jarred Vanderbilt and P.J. Washington. And that was just Round 1.
When the Lakers travel to Dallas later this season, expect even more fireworks. By then, both teams should be at full strength, and with playoff seeding possibly on the line, the stakes will be even higher. Luka will have something to prove, and the Mavericks’ crowd will undoubtedly let him hear it.
But that’s the beauty of sports—and in a broader sense, human rights. Everyone deserves the opportunity to rewrite their story, to seek redemption, and to show who they truly are. Luka might have won this round, but Dallas will be ready when the rematch comes.
One thing’s for sure: it’ll be must-watch basketball.