Luka Dončić Triple-Double Powers Lakers to Win Over Mavericks
Luka Dončić recorded his first triple-double as a Laker in a dominant performance against his former team, the Dallas Mavericks. He finished with 19 points, 15 rebounds, and 12 assists to lead the Lakers to a 127-110 victory at Crypto.com Arena.
Despite his strong all-around effort, Dončić struggled with efficiency, shooting 6-for-17 from the field and 1-for-7 from three-point range. However, he controlled the tempo, grabbed key rebounds, and created scoring chances for teammates. His impact was undeniable, finishing with a game-high +8.
Max Christie’s Return & Luka Dončić Triple-Double Highlights
Max Christie, also part of the trade, returned to Crypto.com Arena as a Maverick. Fans welcomed him with applause. With Dallas short-handed, Christie played 37 minutes and contributed 10 points, six assists, and one rebound. His playmaking was a bright spot, but the Mavericks couldn’t keep up with the Lakers’ strong finish.
Anthony Davis missed the game due to a groin injury suffered in his Mavericks debut. However, the Lakers honored him with a tribute video in the first quarter. The highlight reel showcased his impact in Los Angeles, including his key role in the 2020 NBA championship. From the bench, Davis nodded in appreciation as the crowd applauded.
LeBron James Dominates Fourth Quarter as Luka Dončić Triple-Double Lifts Lakers
With the game still competitive heading into the fourth quarter, LeBron James stepped up. The 39-year-old delivered a dominant final stretch, scoring 15 of his 27 points in the fourth quarter. He shot an efficient 11-for-17 from the field while also grabbing 15 rebounds and three assists. His clutch shot-making sealed the win as Dallas struggled to respond.
What’s Next? Luka Dončić, Lakers & Mavericks Face Off Again
The Lakers and Mavericks will meet one more time this season in April, this time in Dallas. Dončić will have another chance to shine against his former team, this time on his old home court. If Davis is healthy, his presence could make the rematch even more competitive.
With playoff positioning at stake, the next meeting could carry significant implications for both teams.
Related Article: D’Angelo Russell Traded Back to Nets—Again
History repeats itself in the NBA, and for D’Angelo Russell, that means being traded between the Los Angeles Lakers and Brooklyn Nets—twice. On December 29, 2024, the Lakers sent Russell back to Brooklyn nearly seven years after first trading him away.
For a full breakdown of the trade and how Russell joins an exclusive club of players traded between the same teams twice, check out our in-depth analysis:
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BY YOONJAE JUNG [jungyoonjae@koreadaily.com],
ETHAN NARCISO [ethannarciso@gmail.com]
