As Luka Doncic prepared to face his former team, the Dallas Mavericks, in his return to the city as a member of the Los Angeles Lakers, the question of how the Mavericks organization would welcome him back loomed. ESPN’s Tim MacMahon reported that while the Mavericks planned to play a tribute video for Doncic, acknowledging his accomplishments during his time with the team, other potentially lucrative plans involving the star were ultimately scrapped.
Luka Doncic Turns Down Lucrative Endorsement Partnership Ahead Of Los Angeles Lakers vs Dallas Mavericks
According to MacMahon, sponsorship deals with multiple companies that endorsed Doncic were lined up for Wednesday’s game, but these fell apart after Doncic’s camp declined to give their approval, emphasizing his current allegiance to the Lakers.
Despite the heightened emotions surrounding Doncic’s return for fans, former Lakers forward Anthony Davis, who was part of the trade that sent Doncic to Los Angeles, stated that the players were approaching it as “just another game.”
Speaking to reporters, Davis acknowledged the potential for heightened emotions for Doncic in his first game back in Dallas but emphasized his own focus on the game itself. Mavericks head coach Jason Kidd echoed this sentiment, suggesting that fans should cheer for Doncic, recognizing his significant contributions to the franchise during his tenure.
Kidd acknowledged the anticipated emotions and cheers, while also noting the strong Lakers fanbase that travels well, ultimately urging everyone to focus on the game at hand. As Doncic returned to Dallas with the Lakers holding a 48-31 record (third in the West) and the Mavericks at 38-41 (tenth in the West), the night promised a blend of nostalgia and competition.