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Tag: Luka Doncic – English

  • LeBron James 'ignores' Doncic's great performance as he gives Stephen Curry all he deserves

    LeBron James 'ignores' Doncic's great performance as he gives Stephen Curry all he deserves

    Golden State Warriors superstar Steph Curry once again etched his name in NBA history, becoming the first player ever to drain 4,000 career three-pointers. The milestone came in a game against the Sacramento Kings on Thursday night, further cementing Curry’s legacy as the greatest shooter of all time.

    Shortly after Curry hit his record-breaking triple, Los Angeles Lakers superstar LeBron James wasted no time in showing his admiration for the historic feat. Taking to X, James celebrated Curry’s unprecedented achievement with a message of respect and appreciation.

    “4K from Trey is CRAZY!!!!! Congrats my brother!! That’s [fire emojis] @StephenCurry30,” James wrote, using Curry’s signature chef emoji to symbolize his shooting excellence.

    Though Curry had a relatively quiet game with just 11 points and two made three-pointers, his third-quarter shot that pushed him past 4,000 was met with thunderous “MVP” chants from the home crowd.

    The accomplishment adds to a long list of shooting records held by Curry, who in December 2021 surpassed Ray Allen’s 2,973 career three-pointers to become the league’s all-time leader.

    Lakers struggle without LeBron, Bucks snap skid

    While Curry was making history, the Lakers struggled in the absence of LeBron James, falling 126-106 to the Milwaukee Bucks on Friday night.

    Giannis Antetokounmpo and Damian Lillard led a well-rounded attack for the Bucks, snapping a three-game losing streak. Meanwhile, Luka Doncic put up a dominant 45-point performance for Los Angeles but couldn’t lift his team to victory as they slipped to a 40-24 record.

    The Lakers, who have now dropped consecutive games without James due to a groin injury, will look to bounce back when they take on the Denver Nuggets (42-24). The Bucks, on the other hand, aim for back-to-back wins as they prepare to host the Indiana Pacers (36-28).



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  • Mavericks' injury list grows: Kyrie Irving goes down with knee sprain

    Mavericks' injury list grows: Kyrie Irving goes down with knee sprain

    Kyrie Irving hobbled toward the tunnel, flanked by team staff, his night officially over. TheDallas Mavericks’ star guard suffered a left knee sprain in the first quarter against the Sacramento Kings on Monday, leaving an already battered team in even worse shape.

    Irving went down awkwardly after being fouled on a drive to the basket, immediately grabbing his knee. For a moment, it looked bad-bad enough that even injured forward Anthony Davis came over to help him off the floor. But then, in a moment of grit, Irving turned back, stepped onto the court, and knocked down two free throws before heading straight to the locker room.

    LeBron James trolls the Mavericks after Lakers’ dominant win

    The Mavericks quickly ruled him out for the rest of the game, and now, the big question looms: How long will he be out?

    The hits keep coming for Dallas

    This was never how the Mavericks imagined their post-Luka Doncic era would start. When they sent their franchise superstar to the Lakers on Feb. 1, the return package-headlined by Anthony Davis-was supposed to keep them in contention. Instead, Davis has played just one game before a groin injury sidelined him.

    On top of that, Dereck Lively II (ankle), Daniel Gafford (knee), and Caleb Martin (hip) are all out. Now, Irving-their top scorer-is in jeopardy, leaving Dallas with a skeleton crew.

    With so many key players missing, Monday’s game felt inevitable. The Kings smelled blood in the water, pouncing on a depleted Mavericks squad. Even with Klay Thompson trying to keep them afloat, the offense sputtered, and Sacramento pulled away.

    What happens next?

    For now, all eyes are on Irving’s medical evaluation. If he’s out for an extended period, the Mavericks could be in serious trouble. They’re already struggling to find offensive rhythm, and with no clear return dates for Davis or their other injured players, the situation is only getting worse.

    Fans in Dallas are frustrated. The team’s controversial decision to trade Doncic is still fresh, and with every injury, the skepticism grows. Was this the right move? Can the Mavericks salvage this season?

    There are no easy answers right now-only uncertainty. What’s clear is that the Mavericks desperately need some good news. Unfortunately, lately, all they’ve been getting is the opposite.



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  • Doncic's $5 million car on the night of his purple revenge: “Parking reserved for the Lakers' 77”

    Doncic's $5 million car on the night of his purple revenge: “Parking reserved for the Lakers' 77”

    A car belonging to Luka Doncic parked outside the Crypto.com Arena set Los Angeles Lakers fans roaring in the build-up to the game that the Los Angeles Lakers ended up winning against the Mavericks in Doncic’s reunion with Dallas.

    The luxurious vehicle, valued at five million dollars and tinted gold and purple for the occasion, was the center of attention for the thousands of attendees who did not want to miss the long-awaited face-to-face meeting of Doncic with his former teammates until just over a month ago.

    Luka Doncic’s 5 million car: “Take a picture with Doncic’s car”.

    ‘Parking reserved for Lakers 77’ reads a post that simulates a parking lot, with its white lines painted around it, placed right next to a replica of the new Lakers player’s vehicle, as part of an advertisement to promote Tuesday’s game.

    Luka Doncic changes Texas license plate to California’s to the tune of ‘All My Exes Live in Texas’

    A tracksuit-clad Doncic appears in an ad posted on social media changing the car’s Texas license plate to a California one. “Tank’s full, no mercy,” the ad states, which included the song ‘All my Ex’s Live In Texas’.

    It was a statement of intent for his rivals, although all the facilities were put in place for this, as the Lakers player also offered a complete parking lot free of charge so that those attending the match would not have difficulties parking their cars in the vicinity of the stadium.

    “Take a picture with Doncic’s car,” encouraged the staff guarding the vehicle, located right in front of the main entrance to the Lakers’ stadium, where the statue of the team’s star, the eternal Kobe Bryant, is located.

    For many, it was the perfect opportunity to show off the number 77 next to a replica of Doncic’s car, whose jersey is already more frequently among the fans’ favorites to cheer on their team.

    Whether he wore the shield of his previous team or the current Lakers’ gold, the jersey with the Slovenian’s inscription predominated without distinction among the long lines that formed minutes before the meeting in Los Angeles.

    Once inside, a packed stadium waits eagerly for the moment when Doncic scores his first points of the game. The entire crowd screams with excitement, rises to its feet and vibrates to the rhythm of its new star when the ball goes into the opponent’s basket.



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  • Luka Doncic set to lead Lakers against shorthanded Mavericks

    Luka Doncic set to lead Lakers against shorthanded Mavericks

    The Los Angeles Lakers are gearing up for a must-watch showdown against the Dallas Mavericks, their first meeting since the blockbuster trade that sent Luka Doncic to Los Angeles and Anthony Davis to Dallas. The highly anticipated game will take place at Crypto.com Arena on Tuesday night, marking a major test for both teams.

    With Davis sidelined due to an abdominal injury, all eyes will be on Doncic as he faces his former team. The Slovenian superstar delivered a stellar performance in his Lakers debut, recording 32 points, 10 rebounds, seven assists, four steals, and a block in a dominant win over the Denver Nuggets. His ability to elevate his teammates has already drawn praise from Lakers head coach JJ Redick.

    Under pressure! Luka Doncic didn’t say that he wanted to be a Laker raising the alarm in Los Angeles

    Redick praises Doncic’s impact on the Lakers

    Speaking ahead of the game, Redick highlighted what makes Doncic such a special player.

    “Part of what makes him brilliant is he makes the game easy for everybody else,” Redick said. This playmaking ability is something he shares with LeBron James, giving the Lakers two elite floor generals who can create scoring opportunities for their teammates.

    The Mavericks, meanwhile, are dealing with serious injury concerns. Davis remains out after aggravating his abdominal issue during his Dallas debut, while the team is also missing key frontcourt players Daniel Gafford (MCL sprain) and Dereck Lively II (ankle stress fracture). This leaves the Mavericks shorthanded against a Lakers squad that appears to be finding its rhythm.

    Reaves and Hachimura stepping up for Los Angeles

    While the spotlight is on Doncic and James, the Lakers‘ supporting cast has also been crucial to their recent success. Austin Reaves and Rui Hachimura have stepped up as key contributors, complementing the team’s star duo. Reaves is averaging an impressive 19.2 points, 6.1 assists, and 4.3 rebounds, while Hachimura has added 13.4 points and 5.3 rebounds per game. Their consistent production will be vital in maintaining the Lakers‘ momentum.

    With Doncic eager to make a statement against his former team and the Mavericks struggling with injuries, the Lakers have a prime opportunity to climb the Western Conference standings. Tuesday’s game promises to be a thrilling battle, with Doncic at the center of it all.



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  • Luka Doncic shrugs off Lakers' trade fail: “It's all good”

    Luka Doncic shrugs off Lakers' trade fail: “It's all good”

    The Los Angeles Lakers made a bold statement when they landed Luka Doncic ahead of the trade deadline.

    With the Slovenian superstar now leading the team, their front office wasted no time in trying to build a roster that maximizes his talents.

    Putting in the work! Zhuri James trains with his dad LeBron James as she strives for greatness

    Lakers adjusting after a rescinded trade

    One of their first moves was to acquire center Mark Williams from the Charlotte Hornets, a player reportedly “handpicked” by Doncic as an ideal frontcourt partner.

    However, that deal fell apart when Williams failed his physical due to multiple health concerns.

    As a result, Dalton Knecht-who had been sent to Charlotte in the trade-was unexpectedly forced to return to the Lakers.

    Despite the setback, Doncic has remained unphased.

    According to NBA insider Marc Stein, there has been “no tangible dismay” from Doncic or his camp regarding the rescinded deal.

    In fact, Stein reports that Doncic was more focused on the Lakers’ willingness to act quickly rather than dwelling on the trade’s collapse.

    “Sources told The Stein Line that Doncic, in his first discussion about roster construction with Lakers vice president of basketball operations Rob Pelinka, told Pelinka that he understood it might take until the summer to make that addition … and came away impressed by how swiftly the Lakers initially moved to try to address that void,” Stein reported.

    With Williams no longer an option, the Lakers quickly pivoted and signed veteran big man Alex Len.

    While not as high-profile of an addition, Len provides some depth in the wake of the team trading Anthony Davis to Dallas as part of the Doncic deal.

    Now, the Lakers face the challenge of integrating their new superstar while keeping him healthy.

    Doncic has been on a minutes restriction since returning to action against the Utah Jazz on Feb. 10, and he did not participate in the NBA All-Star Weekend to prioritize recovery.

    As the team returns from the break, the Lakers have a back-to-back against the Charlotte Hornets and Portland Trail Blazers.

    According to Stein, Doncic is expected to play in only one of those matchups before a marquee showdown against Nikola Jokic and the Denver Nuggets on Saturday night.

    With the postseason in sight, the Lakers’ focus remains on building a sustainable squad around Doncic.

    While the Williams deal didn’t pan out, it’s clear the front office is committed to surrounding their new face of the franchise with the right pieces-if not now, then certainly in the offseason.



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  • Lakers trade for Luka Doncic called a “gift” by high-profile GM who echoes sentiments of colleagues in NBA circle

    Lakers trade for Luka Doncic called a “gift” by high-profile GM who echoes sentiments of colleagues in NBA circle

    When the Los Angeles Lakers landed Luka Doncic in a stunning trade with the Dallas Mavericks, the basketball world couldn’t believe it. The Mavericks decided to part ways with their 25-year-old megastar in exchange for 31-year-old Anthony Davis, sending shockwaves across the NBA. The move was controversial for more than just the players involved-it was how it went down that left many scratching their heads.

    Utah Jazz GM Justin Zanik, whose team helped facilitate the trade, was blunt about it. Speaking during a broadcast, he acknowledged that Lakers GM Rob Pelinka had called the trade a “gift” and said, “I think that’s how a lot of my colleagues felt.” The fact that Dallas didn’t open up negotiations to other teams only added fuel to the fire.

    Lakers’ JJ Redick caught eyeing Luka Doncic with “crush” eyes on Lakers bench

    According to ESPN’s Brian Windhorst, many around the league expected that if Doncic ever hit the trade market, the price would be astronomical. Instead, the Mavericks moved quickly and only spoke with the Lakers, taking what some executives believe was an underwhelming deal. The Athletic’s Shams Charania reported that Dallas prioritized secrecy, even at the cost of getting more value in return.

    Luka’s instant impact: fans celebrate, Mavericks fans fume

    It’s not just front offices that are in disbelief. Mavericks fans are livid, with many blaming GM Nico Harrison for what they see as a rushed and lopsided decision. Meanwhile, Lakers fans are celebrating yet another superstar acquisition, as Doncic’s arrival immediately catapults the team into championship contention.

    Doncic wasted no time making an impact. In his first game with the Lakers, he delivered a dominant 40-point triple-double against the Phoenix Suns, making it clear that he’s ready to lead L.A. into a new era. The Western Conference looks a lot different now, and the rest of the league is left wondering if the Mavericks just handed the Lakers another dynasty.

    For the Jazz, their role in the trade was minor, taking on Jalen Hood-Schifino’s contract to help facilitate the deal. But Zanik hinted that Utah will have something to say about the new-look West soon enough.“When we’re up there with those guys very soon, maybe I’ll care a little bit more about being the third team,”he said with a grin.

    The Luka Doncic trade will be debated for years, but for now, one team has clearly come out on top-and it’s not the Mavericks.



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  • LeBron James and Luka Doncic shine in Lakers' new era with dominant debut win

    LeBron James and Luka Doncic shine in Lakers' new era with dominant debut win

    The NBA world was shaken when Luka Doncic was unexpectedly traded to the Los Angeles Lakers, a move no one saw coming. Tonight, the anticipation finally turned into reality as Doncic made his debut alongside LeBron James at the Crypto.com Arena against the Utah Jazz. From the moment he stepped onto the court, it was clear this wasn’t just another game it was the beginning of something special. Doncic received a warm welcome from his new teammates and an electric reception from Lakers fans, who erupted in excitement as the new superstar took center stage.

    What seemed like an unthinkable trade has now set the stage for a new era in Los Angeles One that already looks unstoppable. LeBron and Luka wasted no time showing why this duo could dominate the league, leading the Lakers to a commanding victory over the Jazz 132-113. Doncic fit in seamlessly, orchestrating the offense, hitting deep shots, and flashing his signature court vision. If this debut is any indication, the Lakers might have just pulled off one of the biggest moves in franchise history.

    The chemistry between Luka Doncic and the Lakers was immediate, and it showed in their dominant victory. Doncic looked right at home, contributing 14 points, 5 rebounds, and 4 assists, seamlessly fitting into the team’s rhythm. LeBron James also played a key role, adding 24 points, 7 rebounds, and 8 assists, setting the tone for their new partnership. Their connection on the court was undeniable.

    Off the court, Doncic’s warm interactions with teammates and fans showed that he is off to a very good start in his new home. The energy in the Crypto.com Arena was electric: it felt like the beginning of something special.

    LeBron and Luka, the new era of the Lakers

    This blockbuster trade also brings immense expectations. LeBron James is 39 years old, nearing the twilight of his legendary career, while Doncic, at just 25, is entering his prime. Many see Luka as LeBron’s heir in LA, but before that torch gets passed, they have one shared mission-bringing another championship to the Lakers. The potential for greatness is there, but can they deliver under the bright lights of Los Angeles?

    The presence of Bronny James, LeBron’s eldest son, who is in his rookie season, raises expectations for the Lakers’ future even further. Bronny is still finding his footing, adjusting to the pace of the NBA, but there’s a growing belief that he’ll share the court with Doncic far longer than with his father. If Luka can guide and help develop Bronny, the Lakers’ future could be in great hands. LeBron’s legacy might not just be about his individual accolades but also about setting up the franchise for long-term success.

    With Doncic now in the purple and gold, the Lakers have signaled that they’re not waiting for the future they’re going all in right now. His arrival has reignited hope, brought fresh energy to the team, and, most importantly, made the Lakers must-watch basketball again. If tonight was any sign of what’s to come, then Lakers fans better buckle up-because this new era is just getting started.



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  • JJ Redick explains why he's keeping a $17M forward in the starting lineup

    JJ Redick explains why he's keeping a $17M forward in the starting lineup

    With Luka Doncic set to make hisLakers debut, head coach JJ Redick is keeping his starting lineup intact. That means Rui Hachimura remains in the first five over Dorian Finney-Smith, despite some calls for a change. The decision is drawing attention, especially given the Lakers’ ongoing defensive concerns.

    Redick acknowledged that Finney-Smith was strongly considered for the starting role but ultimately decided against making the switch. “There was a lot of thought around Doe [Finney-Smith],” Redick said ahead of Monday’s game. “But frankly, the way he plays doesn’t change whether he comes off the bench or starts, and Rui has been fantastic all season long.”

    Luka Doncic takes the court in Lakers warm-up before highly anticipated debut

    The reasoning behind this move comes down to balance. Hachimura has been a reliable scorer, putting up 13.0 points and 5.2 rebounds per game while shooting 42.7% from deep. Finney-Smith, on the other hand, is known for his defensive presence but has been utilized in a variety of roles since arriving via trade. His 6.9 points and 2.9 rebounds per game suggest he’s adjusted well to his new team, but Redick believes his impact is more consistent regardless of whether he starts.

    Offense over defense? Redick bets on spacing with Hachimura in Lakers’ starting five

    Keeping Hachimura in the starting lineup ensures continuity and spacing. He’s been efficient in catch-and-shoot opportunities, particularly when playing alongside LeBron James and now, potentially, Luka Doncic. Given that James and Doncic both command the ball, having a forward who can stretch the floor is a major asset.

    Of course, the defensive concerns remain. The Lakers’ current starting five-Doncic, Austin Reaves, LeBron, Hachimura, and Jaxson Hayes-lacks a proven perimeter stopper. Metrics from Cleaning the Glass indicate that the Lakers’ defense has been more effective with Finney-Smith on the floor. If struggles persist, Redick may need to make adjustments.

    For now, Redick is sticking to his plan. His rotations have been flexible all season, and he’s shown he’s willing to tweak things if necessary. As Doncic finds his rhythm with the team, the coaching staff will be watching closely to see how this lineup holds up on both ends of the floor. If defensive lapses become a bigger issue, a change could be in the works.



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  • Anthony Davis handles Lakers move with class while Mavericks fans get ready to “welcome” him to Dallas

    Anthony Davis handles Lakers move with class while Mavericks fans get ready to “welcome” him to Dallas

    For the first time in his career, Anthony Davis’ arrival in a new city hasn’t been met with celebration. Instead, Mavericks fans are reeling from the blockbuster trade that sent Luka Doncic to the Los Angeles Lakers, leaving them heartbroken and furious.

    Davis, a 10-time All-Star, knows exactly why emotions are running high.”I understand it,” Davis said Friday. “Obviously, it’s a business, and I get who Luka was to this franchise, to the city. I’m never going to downplay that-just like I know what I meant to the city of L.A. But it’s my job to come in, play basketball, and give the fans hope and reassurance on why [GM] Nico [Harrison] brought me here.”

    Promises something special! Anthony Davis sends a message to Dallas Mavericks fans after being traded

    While Davis prepares to make his Mavericks debut against the Houston Rockets on Saturday, angry fans are organizing protests outside the American Airlines Center. A GoFundMe campaign has even raised over $40,000 to put up billboards criticizing the team’s management.

    Harrison stands by his decision

    Mavericks general manager Nico Harrison has taken full responsibility for the controversial trade, explaining that upgrading the team’s defense and culture was a priority. However, his decision has not been well received.

    Sources told ESPN that security at the arena will be heightened due to threats directed at Harrison, some of which have included racial slurs. The GM has even hired personal security in response to the backlash.

    Harrison, a former Nike executive, has known Davis since he was a teenager and maintained a close relationship with him over the years. Mavericks head coach Jason Kidd, who worked with Davis during the Lakers‘ 2020 championship run, also played a role in bringing him to Dallas.

    Despite the chaos surrounding his arrival, Davis remains focused on proving his worth.

    “Obviously, I understand who Luka is and what he’s already done for our game,” Davis said. “He’s a phenomenal player, going to be one of the best to ever play basketball.

    “But for Nico to trade for me shows his belief in me and what I can do on the floor. It’s my job to produce every night and have Mavs Nation believe that as well. So I’m excited for the challenge.”



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  • Luka Doncic and LeBron James share court for first time together as they move past NBA-altering trade

    Luka Doncic and LeBron James share court for first time together as they move past NBA-altering trade

    The Los Angeles Lakers‘ blockbuster trade for Luka Doncic has already shaken up the NBA, but now, fans have gotten their first glimpse of the superstar in purple and gold. The former Mavericks sensation was spotted at Lakers practice on Wednesday, marking the beginning of what could be a new dynasty in Los Angeles.

    It was an unusual sight at the Lakers’ training facility-Doncic, flanked by LeBron James and Austin Reaves, casually launching deep threes and laughing with his new teammates. A viral clip from the session showed him effortlessly sinking a half-court shot, a reminder of the magic he brings to the floor. More notably, he was seen reconnecting with Dorian Finney-Smith, his former Dallas teammate, adding a layer of familiarity to his transition.

    First look! LeBron James and Luka Doncic spotted together on Lakers bench

    The Lakers pulled off what many are calling the most shocking trade in NBA history late Saturday night, sending Anthony Davis, Max Christie, and a 2029 first-round pick to Dallas in exchange for Doncic, Maxi Kleber, and Markieff Morris. Additionally, Jalen Hood-Schifino and a second-round pick were dealt to Utah as part of the transaction. While losing a cornerstone like Davis is no small sacrifice, the Lakers are banking on Doncic to usher in a new era of championship contention.

    For Doncic, the move was unexpected. “I thought I’d finish my career in Dallas,” he admitted in an emotional letter to Mavericks fans following the trade. Still, the allure of playing alongside LeBron James and for one of the most storied franchises in basketball history has him optimistic about the road ahead.

    LeBron welcomes Doncic, but Lakers face roster questions

    James, who has played with his share of elite talent over the years, wasted no time welcoming his new teammate. He posted a cryptic Instagram story with an image of Doncic and the caption, “Coming soon,” setting the stage for what could be one of the most dynamic duos in recent NBA history.

    However, the Lakers still have roster concerns. With Davis gone, the team is actively seeking to bolster its frontcourt depth. Reports suggest they are eyeing a defensive-minded center to complement Doncic’s elite playmaking and scoring abilities.

    Despite the uncertainty, one thing is clear: the Lakers just became the most must-watch team in the league. Doncic has already built a resume worthy of Hall of Fame consideration, averaging 30.9 points, 9.4 rebounds, and 8.0 assists in 50 career playoff games. With an NBA Finals appearance in 2024 under his belt and five All-NBA First Team selections, he’s now stepping into a role where championships are expected, not just hoped for.

    The Lakers’ first game with Doncic in uniform is set for February 8 against the Indiana Pacers. With the league watching, the pressure is on-but Doncic has never been one to shy away from the big stage.



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