The Lakers’ new center takes his place at the free throw line, while the team’s former star big man remains a favorite among fans. During the first quarter on Friday, a Lakers supporter called out, “We miss you, AD!” as Deandre Ayton prepared for a free throw.
Anthony Davis, who was traded to the Mavericks last season, made his Los Angeles debut since the trade, contributing 12 points, five assists, five rebounds, and three blocks in the Lakers’ 129-119 victory at Crypto.com Arena. With a 14-4 record, the Lakers secured their sixth consecutive win in the NBA Cup, advancing to West Group B and gaining home court advantage for the tournament’s quarterfinals. They are set to host the West Group C champion San Antonio Spurs on December 10 at 7 p.m.
The trade that brought Luka Doncic to Los Angeles has increasingly favored the Lakers over the past ten months, with the Mavericks currently on a three-game losing streak at 5-15. Doncic scored 35 points and recorded 11 assists in the game, while former Lakers guard Max Christie, also part of the trade, added 13 points and has become a consistent starter for the Mavericks.
After emotional encounters with his former team last year, Doncic mentioned that while some feelings have mellowed, playing against Dallas remains meaningful. Davis returned from a month-long calf strain injury just in time Friday, a period during which the Mavericks struggled and dropped to the bottom of the Western Conference.
Meanwhile, the Lakers maintain the second-best record in the West, with Doncic leading the league in scoring at 35.1 points per game. The trade has been tough for Mavericks fans to accept, especially with Davis’s injury troubles and Doncic’s rising stardom. The team’s former general manager Nico Harrison was dismissed on November 11 amid the turmoil.
Amidst speculation about a new player being traded to fill in for Doncic, the Mavericks have gone 3-11 without Davis. Coach Jason Kidd encouraged Davis to focus on recovery, emphasizing the importance of staying positive despite challenges.
Davis was limited to 24-27 minutes on Friday and had to leave the game with under seven minutes remaining in the fourth quarter, while the Mavericks trailed by just three points. He left the court injured but had an impactful presence with blocks, an assist, and a basket early in the final quarter.
Kidd regards Davis as one of the world’s best players when healthy, citing his impressive stats from the Paris Olympics. Lakers coach JJ Redick praised Davis not only for his talent but also for his supportive role in Redick’s first year as head coach.
Despite the bittersweet nature of his return, Davis was warmly welcomed by fans and teammates, including a playful exchange with LeBron James before the game. After the victory, players shared hugs with Davis, with Austin Reeves—who starred with 38 points, 8 rebounds, and 3 assists—offering a bear hug and praise.
Davis expressed admiration for Reeves’ consistent performance and potential at the highest level. Reeves left the locker room carrying Davis’s autographed No. 3 jersey, reflecting on the encouragement Davis gave him to stay true to himself on the court.
This story was originally published by the Los Angeles Times.
Fan Take: This update is significant for basketball fans as it highlights the ongoing impact of blockbuster trades on teams’ dynamics and player legacies. With stars like Davis and Doncic shaping the future of their franchises, the NBA continues to evolve in exciting and unexpected ways.
