Luka Doncic’s emotional return to Dallas ended in a powerful performance on the court, leaving head coach JJ Redick both impressed and reflective. The Los Angeles Lakers’ 112-97 win over the Mavericks on Wednesday night wasn’t just about the victory—it was about Doncic’s resilience and leadership in the face of personal adversity.
During a pre-game interview, Redick had expressed confidence in his star player’s ability to rise to the occasion. “We’ve got your back, Luka,” he said, as the Lakers prepared for a high-stakes game. But what transpired during the game surpassed Redick’s expectations.
“I thought he was going to get 50,” Redick admitted in a post-game interview. “I was disappointed he didn’t, honestly.” Doncic finished with 45 points, matching his season high, but Redick’s comment underlined just how close the superstar came to an even more historic night.
The emotional atmosphere of the night was undeniable. Before tipoff, Doncic was greeted with a heartfelt video tribute from the Mavericks, acknowledging his years of service to the franchise. Despite being teary-eyed, Doncic stepped onto the court and delivered a performance that showcased his emotional strength.
Redick, who has known Doncic for years, reflected on how powerful the moment was for everyone involved. “The tribute video was great, but I think just his ability to then go perform—the lights turn on, he’s still teary-eyed, and he went out and did that,” Redick said. “It’s superhuman.” Redick noted that Doncic’s teammates could deeply empathize with his emotions, having watched him struggle through the past couple of months. “All his teammates know that, too,” Redick said. “They can feel what he’s been through.”
The game, a key one for the Lakers as they locked in a playoff berth, was more than just another regular season contest—it was a moment of solidarity. Redick emphasized how powerful it was to see Doncic supported by his teammates, especially LeBron James, who embraced him after the game. “This is going to be awesome for our group to go through this with him,” Redick shared. “Does that mean we’re going to win an NBA championship or get to the conference finals? I don’t know, but it was an awesome moment for everyone.”
Despite the emotional weight, Doncic was sharp from the start, making crucial shots early, including back-to-back threes in the first quarter. This early rhythm set the tone for the rest of his game. “It just helped him get into rhythm early,” Redick observed. “Outside of that stretch in the second half where they were double-teaming him, he never really lost that rhythm.”
As for the Lakers, Redick was pleased with how the team rallied around Doncic. LeBron James played a pivotal role in the second half, scoring 13 points in the fourth quarter alone. “LeBron’s energy on the second night of a back-to-back, on both ends of the court, showed stuff,” Redick noted, commending his star player’s leadership.
The Lakers’ defense also stepped up, limiting Dallas to just 42.5% shooting from the field. Redick was proud of the team’s ability to stay locked in and challenge Dallas, especially in the second half, when the Mavericks had briefly grabbed the lead. “We had a 40-point second half,” Redick pointed out. “We challenged the guys at halftime, and our guys certainly had Luka’s back, and he had his teammates’ back for sure.”
For the Lakers, securing a postseason berth was a significant milestone. Redick, however, was already focused on the next goal: securing the third seed. “It’s an accomplishment to be in the playoffs,” he acknowledged. “But we want the third seed, though. We have two more cracks to guarantee that spot.”
Despite the challenges, Redick emphasized the importance of the team’s unity moving forward. “It can bring you closer,” he said, reflecting on how these types of shared moments can strengthen a group. “You never know. The NBA is a fickle thing.”
As for Doncic, his night was a mix of personal triumph and frustration. He finished the game with 45 points, but his emotions boiled over late when he was ejected after arguing a no-call in transition. “I saw the Harlem Globetrotters,” Redick quipped when asked about the chaotic moments. “What was happening there? I have no idea.”
The Lakers’ victory over the Mavericks helped solidify their playoff position, improving their record to 49-31 and keeping them in the hunt for a top seed in the Western Conference. The game also marked another step in the journey for a team that, under Redick’s leadership, continues to show resilience.
