Luka Doncic Gives First Public Comments On His Trade To The Lakers

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The Los Angeles Lakers officially introduced Luka Doncic in a press conference on Tuesday.

Doncic, 25, is now the latest in a long line of high-profile trade acquisitions made by the Lakers. The five-time All-Star was dealt to LA in a shocking trade that came together overnight on Sunday, with 10-time All-Star big man Anthony Davis going from the Lakers to the Mavericks. The move rocked the basketball world, and two days later, still seems surreal.

Doncic had been the face of the Mavs since arriving via draft night trade in 2018. He expected to remain with the team for the rest of his career, but Dallas had other ideas.

Doncic released a statement on the trade Sunday afternoon, but today gave him the first opportunity to comment in a public forum. The Slovenian superstar told reporters he was as shocked as anyone to get the news he was being traded.

“I was almost asleep, so when I got a call, I had to check if it was April 1st. I didn’t really believe it at first,” Doncic said. “It was a big shock. It was hard moments for me. It was home.”

LOS ANGELES, CALIFORNIA – NOVEMBER 22: Luka Doncic #77 of the Dallas Mavericks reacts after scoring a basket against LeBron James #23 of the Los Angeles Lakers during the second half at Crypto.com Arena on November 22, 2023 in Los Angeles, California. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Kevork Djansezian/Getty Images)

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Doncic also said he “had no comment” on the Mavericks choosing to get rid of him after six-plus seasons.

“[The Mavericks] made a decision, I don’t know why. That’s their decision so I can’t do nothing about that,” he said.

Doncic has been nursing a calf injury for a little while now, leaving the date for his eventual Lakers debut up in the air.

“[The Mavericks] made a decision, I don’t know why.” pic.twitter.com/bcvftYezwT

— SportsCenter (@SportsCenter) February 4, 2025

ESPN’s Marc Spears reported Monday that Doncic is targeting next week for his first game with his new team.

“He’s in the facility today getting a physical,” Spears said. “Press conference tomorrow, and I’m hearing he’s targeting next week—the Lakers play at home against Utah next Monday, and on the road in Utah next Wednesday, a potential return from his calf injury.”

Without Doncic, the Lakers will take on the Los Angeles Clippers tonight at Intuit Dome at 10 p.m. ET.