For many — if not most — Dallas Mavericks fans, February 2 is a day that will live in infamy.
Just after midnight on that day earlier this year, the team traded away the face of the franchise, Luka Doncic, who had just led them to the NBA Finals the season before.
In return, the Mavericks received compensation from the Los Angeles Lakers that few, if any, observers felt came close to matching the Slovenian superstar’s market value.
Doncic, who once said he planned to retire as a Maverick, returns to Dallas tonight — not as the home team’s hero, but as a Laker. And without a doubt, the American Airlines Center will be packed with fans — some ready to cheer, others still in shock.
Many have already taken to social media to express their emotions ahead of the matchup.
Here’s what fans in Dallas are saying about Luka’s return.
Anger at the Adelsons Runs Deep
Some fans aren’t just mourning Luka’s departure — they’re furious with the team’s leadership. Not just general manager Nico Harrison, but owners Miriam Adelson and Patrick Dumont.
From Indifference Back to Outrage
One longtime fan thought he had moved on. Luka’s return brought it all back.
I’m surprised by how angry I am today.
byu/RangerBowBoy inMavericks
Calling for a Fan Boycott
Some Mavericks fans have checked out completely — and want others to follow suit.
Comment
byu/RangerBowBoy from discussion
inMavericks
Reveling in the Collapse
Others are finding grim satisfaction in what they see as deserved downfall.
Love for Luka, No Matter the Jersey
Despite everything, many fans still have nothing but love for their former star.
Globely News covers the game changers transforming the worlds of business, sports, politics, and technology. From AI and electric vehicles to the rise of China and the NFL's next stars, we've got you covered.