Luka Doncic continues to shine since his transfer to the Los Angeles Lakers, securing a 4-0 record against his former team, the Dallas Mavericks. In a game held on January 24, 2026, at the American Airlines Center in Dallas, Doncic showcased his talent, contributing significantly to the Lakers’ comeback victory.
Doncic, who previously played for the Mavericks, has adapted well to his new environment, reportedly feeling more comfortable around his teammates. LeBron James, a key player for the Lakers, noted, “The biggest thing is he’s more comfortable around the players and our system.” This adaptability has been evident in Doncic’s performance on the court, as he displayed his trademark competitive spirit, a quality recognized by Lakers’ coach JJ Redick.
Despite facing challenges during the transition, including the shock of being traded mid-season, Doncic took the summer to recover and bond with his new teammates. Redick praised Doncic’s efforts, calling him “a great version of Luka.” However, the coach also emphasized the importance of trust within the team, particularly when it comes to sharing the ball. After a recent game against the Los Angeles Clippers, Redick pointed out the need for Doncic to trust his teammates more, especially when opposing defenses focus on him.
Doncic’s current season statistics are impressive; he is leading the league in scoring while also registering the highest usage rate of his career. Nonetheless, this high reliance on Doncic raises concerns among Lakers players, as several lack contracts for the upcoming season and are eager to secure their place within the team. Rui Hachimura, a Lakers forward, expressed the difficulty of navigating this dynamic, stating, “This happens playing with these guys. I signed up for that. I understand it.”
In the recent game against the Mavericks, Doncic recorded 33 points, 8 rebounds, and 11 assists. His performance was instrumental in the Lakers’ late-game rally, showcasing not just his scoring ability but also his defensive contributions. After being targeted by the Mavericks, Doncic managed to make crucial defensive stops that helped maintain the Lakers’ momentum.
The atmosphere at the game was electric, with fans chanting “MVP” as Doncic stepped to the free-throw line. This moment reflected his ongoing connection to Dallas, a city he still holds dear despite his current residence in Los Angeles. After the game, he acknowledged the different emotions tied to this particular matchup, saying, “This one is a little bit different.” While he no longer considers Dallas home, he retains friendships and fond memories from his time with the Mavericks.
As the Mavericks prepare for their upcoming game against the Milwaukee Bucks, they face additional challenges, including travel disruptions caused by a winter storm affecting North Texas. The team is expected to depart for Milwaukee on Sunday, with their match scheduled for 18:00 local time.
In the context of Doncic’s success, the Lakers continue to navigate their own challenges as they strive to build a cohesive unit capable of competing for a championship. With the ongoing adjustments and a competitive spirit driving them, both Doncic and the Lakers seem poised for further achievements in the season ahead.
