Overview

• Luka Doncic scored 45 points, with eight rebounds, six assists, and four steals in the Lakers' 112-97 victory over the Mavericks, his first game in Dallas since the February trade.
• The Mavericks honored Doncic with a tribute video before the game, bringing him to tears in an emotionally charged homecoming.
• The win clinched a playoff berth for the Lakers and positioned them closer to securing the No. 3 seed in the Western Conference standings.
• Doncic expressed mixed emotions postgame, appreciating the fans' support but stating it was time to move forward with his career in Los Angeles.
• Teammates, led by LeBron James, rallied around Doncic during the game, highlighting the Lakers' unity and their focus on postseason aspirations.