Lakers' Luka Doncic makes heartfelt social media post involving Mavericks

  • Caleb Hightower
  • January 4, 2026
It has been nearly a year since the trade that redefined the NBA landscape, yet Luka Dončić continues to show that his bond with Dallas remains unbreakable. Over the weekend, the Los Angeles Lakers superstar shared a heartfelt 10-minute video on X (formerly Twitter) recapping a whirlwind 2025—a year defined by the blockbuster deadline deal that sent him to Hollywood in exchange for Anthony Davis.

The post, captioned "2025. A lot happened. Thank you for everything. Happy New Year!", offers an intimate look at Dončić’s life since the trade. While the footage highlights his acclimation to Los Angeles—including candid moments enjoying the coast—the video’s emotional core features Dončić sitting alone on the bench at the American Airlines Center. Filmed during his return to Dallas, the clip captures the Slovenian guard silently soaking in the atmosphere of the arena where he became a global icon before his departure.

For Mavericks fans, the tribute is a bittersweet reminder of the "Luka Magic" era. The trade, initially viewed as a shock, sent Dallas into a rebuild that eventually netted them the No. 1 overall pick and rookie sensation Cooper Flagg. However, watching Dončić thrive in purple and gold remains a complex reality. The 26-year-old is in the midst of a career-best campaign, averaging 33.5 points, 8.7 assists, and 8.2 rebounds. Just hours after the post began circulating, Dončić dropped 36 points to lead the Lakers past the Memphis Grizzlies, 120-114, further cementing his MVP candidacy.

The social media gesture suggests that despite the abrupt nature of his exit, Dončić holds no ill will toward the franchise. His on-court chemistry with LeBron James has been seamless, but this public acknowledgment of his roots proves his history in Texas isn't forgotten. As the Lakers surge up the Western Conference standings, Dončić has seemingly mastered the balance of embracing his bright future in Los Angeles while honoring the city that first welcomed him to the league.