Luka Doncic reveals how he’s feeling ahead of highly awaited Dallas return, says 'I don't know how I'm going to feel'

Luka Doncic will step foot on the American Airlines Center court for the first time after being traded to Los Angeles Lakers in a deal which centered around Anthony Davis. The Dallas Mavericks will host Los Angeles Lakers on Wednesday, April 9.

Luka Doncic on his highly anticipated return to Dallas Mavericks

The 26-year-old point guard last played for Dallas Mavericks on Christmas Day 2024 and has been a great acquisition for the Lakers, who in return sent Anthony Davis, Max Christie and a 2029 first-round pick to Mavericks in exchange for the shooting guard, Markieff Morris and Maxi Kleber. In the 26 games that Doncic has played for the Lakers, he has averaged 27.1 points, 8.1 rebounds and 7.6 assists.

The game against the Mavericks would be a back-to-back for the Lakers, who lost out to OKC Thunder on Tuesday. In that match, Doncic was ejected in the fourth round after picking up two technical fouls. As all eyes would be on Doncic's return, he shared his honest feelings about playing against his former franchise.

Of course, it's going to be a lot of emotion for me, Doncic said (per Ryan Ward). I don't even know what to expect. I don't know how I'm going to feel, honestly. I know I'm looking forward to being back in Dallas, obviously. ... It's going to be very emotional for me for sure.

This will be the second match that Doncic will play against Mavericks after his trade. The first meeting happened back on February 25, when the Lakers walked away with a 107-99 victory as the Slovenian superstar registered 19 points, 15 rebounds, 12 assists, three steals and two blocks.

Jason Kidd on Luka Doncic's return to Dallas Mavericks

Dallas Mavericks head coach Jason Kidd spoke about Doncic's return to the American Airlines Center during the Tuesday's practice. He even encouraged the fans to cheer for their former superstar.

I think it’s safe to say that they should cheer, Kidd said (per Mavs.com). But for us it’s about trying to find a way to win.

It is emotional, I think, anytime anybody is traded, Kidd said.

So, coming back for the first time or even the second time or even the third time — because of the memories of being able to get to the Western Conference Finals or to be able to get to the (NBA) Finals, or to be an All-Star – the things that he has done in a short amount of time is incredible.

When and where to watch Los Angeles Lakers vs Dallas Mavericks clash?

The tip-off time for the Los Angeles Lakers vs Dallas Mavericks clash is 7:30 pm ET. The live broadcast of Los Angeles Lakers vs Dallas Mavericks clash will be available on ESPN, SportsNet LA, and KFAA. The fans can enjoy live streaming of Los Angeles Lakers vs Dallas Mavericks clash on NBA League Pass and Fubo TV app.