Luka Doncic Reflects on Dallas After Making History in Lakers' Win vs. Flagg, Mavs After Trade
Los Angeles Lakers star Luka Dončić called Dallas "a special place" after making another return to his old stomping ground.
"I mean, I'm always going to want to win no matter what," he told reporters after Saturday's 116-110 victory over the Dallas Mavericks. "Every game I want to win, but obviously this one's a little bit different."
Dončić finished with 33 points, eight rebounds and 11 assists in the win. Knocking down three three-pointers, he became the youngest player in NBA history with 1,500 career makes from deep.
The emotions weren't quite as acute this time around compared to when the five-time All-Star first suited up in American Airlines Center as an opposing player last spring. He's still settling in to the new normal, though, having walked toward the home locker room at halftime.
Teammate LeBron James said he understood what playing in Dallas means to Dončić. He believes the dynamic guard was "more comfortable" on the court this time around:
Luka celebrated the occasion by picking 22 Mavericks fans and giving them VIP treatment. The fans received suite tickets along with some of Dončić's signature gear.
Those in the Dallas metro area did their part as well. Saturday's contest had an attendance of 19,880 despite a winter storm creating less than ideal conditions on the road.
"That was really special," Dončić said of the packed house. "I didn't know what to expect before, because I know how this city gets when the weather is bad. I really appreciate a lot of people showing up."
The Lakers have another road trip against the Mavericks on April 5. Having won the first two head-to-head meetings, Los Angeles might be looking to complete a season sweep.
