Luka Doncic and the Los Angeles Lakers make their way to Dallas tonight to take on the Mavericks in the superstar’s first game back in the city where his NBA career began in 2018.
It will be an emotional return for both the point guard and Mavericks fans. The blockbuster trade broke the hearts of Mavs loyalists and sparked outrage, with some fans protesting and threatening boycotts.
The move left many scratching their heads, as the Miriam Adelson-owned team chose to part ways with a top-five NBA player in exchange for top-15 talent Anthony Davis and minimal draft capital.
Two months later, the feelings remain raw for many in Dallas.
The Lakers have struggled in their last 10 games but still hold third place in the Western Conference. The Mavericks, meanwhile, could clinch the final spot in the play-in tournament tonight with a win over Los Angeles or a loss by the Phoenix Suns.
Injury Report
Los Angeles Lakers: Bronny James (illness) and Rui Hachimura (knee) are game-time decisions.
Dallas Mavericks: Dante Exum (hand) is questionable. Anthony Davis (adductor) is listed as probable for tonight’s game. Jaden Hardy (ankle) is out. Kyrie Irving (ACL) and Olivier-Maxence Prospsper (wrist) are out for the season.
How to Watch Lakers vs. Mavericks
The Lakers vs. Mavericks game airs nationally on ESPN. Tip-off is set for just after 7:30 PM Eastern — that’s 4:30 PM Pacific.
The game can be streamed on the ESPN app and website, Hulu, and other streaming platforms
Date and Time: April 9, 2025, 7:30 PM Eastern
Venue: American Airlines Center, Dallas, TX
TV: ESPN
Streaming: ESPN app and website, Hulu + Live TV, Sling, YouTube TV
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