Luka Doncic led the Los Angeles Lakers to a thrilling victory against his former team, the Dallas Mavericks, on January 24, 2026. This marks Doncic’s fourth consecutive win over the Mavericks since his trade, solidifying his impact with the Lakers. The game showcased Doncic’s remarkable skills despite a challenging season, as he continues to adapt to his new environment.
Doncic’s transition to the Lakers has been under scrutiny since he joined the team, particularly regarding his relationship with teammates and the coaching staff. LeBron James highlighted Doncic’s growing comfort within the Lakers’ system, stating, “The biggest thing is he’s more comfortable around the players and our system.” This adjustment has been crucial as the Lakers strive for success in a highly competitive league.
Despite his impressive performance, Doncic’s journey has not been without its difficulties. Following the trade, he faced the emotional challenge of leaving the Mavericks, a team he had called home. JJ Redick, now the Lakers’ coach, praised Doncic’s competitive spirit, recalling his time as a teammate during the 2020-21 season. “I was just always struck by his competitive spirit and how much he really wants to win,” Redick noted.
In the recent matchup, Doncic recorded a remarkable line of 33 points, 8 rebounds, and 11 assists. However, his defensive performance raised eyebrows, particularly after a notable minus-17 rating against the Clippers. Redick emphasized the need for trust among players, particularly with Doncic often taking the lead. “There’s got to be a trust factor with all our guys just to trust the pass,” he explained.
Doncic’s scoring prowess has positioned him as a leader in the league, yet his high usage rate has sparked concerns among teammates about sharing the ball effectively. Eight Lakers players are in contract years, intensifying the need for balanced offensive strategies. Rui Hachimura expressed frustrations about his limited shot attempts in a previous game, underscoring the challenges of sharing the court with a dominant player like Doncic.
The atmosphere during the game was electric, with fans showing their support for Doncic with chants of “MVP” as he approached the free-throw line. The Lakers’ late-game rally, led by Doncic and James, turned the tide in their favor, much to the delight of spectators at the American Airlines Center.
As the Lakers continue to navigate the season, Doncic’s performance remains pivotal. He has embraced the challenge of playing for a new team while maintaining connections to his past in Dallas. “Luka wants to win, so I’m not surprised,” Redick remarked, acknowledging his player’s ability to rise to the occasion.
Looking ahead, the Mavericks are preparing for their upcoming game against the Milwaukee Bucks, scheduled for January 29, 2026. Weather conditions in North Texas may impact travel plans, but the team remains focused on their objectives. As Doncic continues to excel with the Lakers, fans and analysts alike will be watching closely to see if he can maintain his winning streak against his former teammates.
