The Los Angeles Lakers and Dallas Mavericks played for the first time since the Luka Doncic to LA and Anthony Davis to Dallas trade. Davis was out with an adductor strain so Doncic got to face his former team for the first time. The Lakers won 107-99 but the game was full of drama, tension and storylines. Here are three takeaways.
Kyrie Irving Shines, But Mavericks Need More Help
Kyrie Irving went off for the Mavericks, 35 points and 5-11 from 3. But it wasn’t enough to win.
- No Shot Creators: Outside of Irving, Klay Thompson (22 points) and Max Christie (10 points) were the only Mavericks in double figures. The team was missing playmakers and ball handlers after trading away Luka Doncic.
- Anthony Davis Absence: Davis’ injury is a huge hole in the Mavericks offense. His return in a few weeks will help but the team still needs more creators to be a top level team.
Luka Doncic’s Triple-Double, But LeBron James Steals the Show
Luka Doncic had a triple-double (24 points, 12 rebounds, 10 assists) but LeBron James took over when it mattered most.
- Doncic’s Second-Half Slump: After a hot first half Doncic cooled off in the second, deferring to LeBron as the Mavs threw different defenses at him.
- LeBron’s Clutch: James scored 27 points, found his spots and capitalized on Doncic’s feeds. His vet leadership was the difference in the 4th quarter.
April’s Rematch in Dallas Will Be Must-See TV
First game was emotional but the rematch in Dallas on April 9th will be even better.
- Trash Talk and Chippiness: Doncic went at the Mavericks bench, Lakers fans chanted “Thank you, Nico [Harrison],” and there was plenty of chippiness between Jarred Vanderbilt and P.J. Washington.
- What’s Next?: With Anthony Davis back and both teams fighting for playoff seeding, the April rematch will be big.
FAQs
Why wasn’t Anthony Davis playing?
Davis had an adductor strain and will be back in a few weeks.
How did Luka Doncic do against his old team?
Doncic had a triple-double (24 points, 12 rebounds, 10 assists) but struggled in the 2nd half when the Mavs adjusted their defense.
Who else stepped up for the Lakers besides Luka?
LeBron had 27 points and took over in the 2nd half to win.
What’s next for the Mavs?
The Mavs need more shot creators to support Kyrie Irving and Anthony Davis coming back will help. Next up vs the Lakers on April 9th in Dallas.
Why was this game so emotional?
It was Luka’s first game against his old team since the trade and there was a ton of trash talk, fan reactions and on court tension.