In his first comments since being traded to the Los Angeles Lakers on Sunday, NBA superstar Luka Doncic expressed heartfelt gratitude to the Dallas Mavericks, their fans, and the city of Dallas in a letter posted on X (formerly Twitter).
The trade, one of the most shocking in NBA history, sent Doncic and teammates Maxi Kleber and Markieff Morris to the Lakers in exchange for Anthony Davis, Max Christie, and the Lakers’ 2029 first-round draft pick.
Doncic’s Gratitude to Dallas
Doncic, who joined the Mavericks as a teenager seven years ago, reflected on his time in Dallas, calling it a “home away from home.” He wrote, “Seven years ago, I came here as a teenager to pursue my dream of playing basketball at the highest level. I thought I’d spend my career here and I wanted so badly to bring you a championship. The love and support you all have given me is more than I could have ever dreamed of.”
He thanked Mavericks fans for their unwavering support through highs and lows, including injuries and the team’s run to the NBA Finals. “In good times and bad, from injuries to the NBA Finals, your support never changed. Thank you not only for sharing my joy in our best moments but also for lifting me up when I needed it most,” Doncic added.
Grateful for this amazing opportunity. Basketball means everything to me, and no matter where I play the game, I’ll do so with the same joy, passion and goal – to win championships. https://t.co/psfgI5o9Pn
— Luka Doncic (@luka7doncic) February 2, 2025A New Chapter with the Lakers
Doncic, currently sidelined with a calf injury, expressed excitement about joining the Lakers and playing alongside LeBron James. “Basketball means everything to me, and no matter where I play the game, I’ll do so with the same joy, passion, and goal—to win championships,” he said.
The five-time All-Star has averaged 28.1 points, 8.3 rebounds, and 7.8 assists in 22 games this season, showcasing his elite talent despite injury setbacks.
The trade, first reported by ESPN’s Shams Charania, also involved the Utah Jazz, who acquired Jalen Hood-Schifino, a 2025 Los Angeles Clippers second-round draft pick, and a 2025 Mavericks second-round pick.
Mavericks’ Concerns and Doncic’s Legacy
Despite Doncic’s stellar performance over the past five seasons, the Mavericks reportedly had “major concerns” about his conditioning and the financial implications of his impending supermax contract extension. These concerns, highlighted by ESPN’s Tim MacMahon, decided to trade him even more surprising, given his status as one of the league’s brightest stars.
Doncic concluded his letter by expressing deep appreciation for Dallas and its fans. “Dallas is a special place, and Mavs fans are special fans. Thank you, from the bottom of my heart,” he wrote.
What’s Next for Doncic and the Lakers?
While there is no official timetable for Doncic’s return, the Lakers are set to face their crosstown rivals, the Los Angeles Clippers, on Tuesday at the Intuit Dome. Fans eagerly await Doncic’s debut in the purple and gold, hoping his arrival will propel the Lakers to championship contention.
