The Luka Dončić trade will go down as one of the most significant deals in NBA history. The blockbuster move, widely criticized by fans and analysts alike, sent the Slovenian superstar and two other players to the Los Angeles Lakers—a deal the Lakers have won.
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The trade stunned Mavericks fans, many of whom still can’t believe Dallas let go of their biggest star. Even though Dončić already played several games in purple and gold, his return to Dallas for the first time as a Laker brought a wave of emotion.
As Dončić took his seat on the visitors’ bench, he was greeted warmly by familiar faces—security guards, assistants, and equipment staff he had known for years. Then, the Mavericks played a heartfelt tribute video on the big screen, a montage of highlight reels from his unforgettable years in Dallas.
The arena erupted with applause, a powerful reaction from fans who once revered—and still deeply admire him. Cameras captured the emotional moment as Dončić, overwhelmed with nostalgia and gratitude, wiped his tears.
Many reacted to Luka’s emotional moment, including the Giants’ new QB, Russell Wilson. The Super Bowl winner loved seeing the Lakers Shooting Guard get such a heartfelt tribute, stating that Slovenian deserved it.
“This was cool to see… Luka deserves this!”
Fans had plenty to say after Wilson gave Dončić his flowers. Many fans praised the moment but also called out the Mavericks for how they handled their former star, insisting they never should have traded Luka. Others noticed and appreciated the warm embraces he received from his Lakers teammates, recognizing it as a powerful show of support.
Meanwhile, a few took the opportunity to throw shade at Russ, claiming he wouldn’t truly understand what Luka was feeling—because, in their words, Russ has never left a city or its fans on such good terms.
He was treated so badly. He should have never been traded.
— J C (@cavey_justin) April 10, 2025
Another chimed in and added,
That hug wit one of the twins tho… love!!
— act iii… loading (@YungLootha) April 10, 2025
Others commented,
U wouldn’t know about leaving a city on a good note
— (@youngnjigba) April 10, 2025
Russell Wilson too has a history of leaving cities for new pastures. However, none of his moves has worked out well for him. The Super Bowl winner left Seattle after ten seasons for Denver, signing a five-year contract with the Broncos. However, his lackluster stay there ended after two years, when the front office released him at the insistence of Sean Payton.
Russ penned a beautiful and heartfelt goodbye to the Broncos and the city of Denver, posting it on social media. He moved on to the Steelers, who also didn’t re-sign him and is now on his third team in three years.
Meanwhile, Luka Dončić return to Dallas couldn’t have been better. He put up 45 points, 6 assists, and eight rebounds on his return as he and the Lakers chase the NBA Championship with a thumping 112-97 win.
