Luka Dončić faced off against his former team Friday night, but this time, the emotions were dialed down. Nearly 10 months removed from the blockbuster trade that sent him from Dallas to Los Angeles, the dust has settled.
The man who orchestrated that move, former Mavericks GM Nico Harrison, is already out of the picture. So instead of tension and theatrics, Dončić locked in and went to work-dropping 35 points, dishing out 11 assists, and grabbing five rebounds in the Lakers’ 129-119 win.
“I would say it’s a little bit easier now,” Dončić admitted postgame. “But like I said, games against Dallas always have some special meaning to me.
I still have a lot of friends there. It’s always special.
It’ll always be special for me.”
He played like a man in control-calm, focused, and surgical. But while Dončić’s performance was impressive, it wasn’t the loudest on the floor. That honor belonged to Austin Reaves, who continues to make a serious case for his first All-Star nod.
Reaves was electric, pouring in a game-high 38 points. He’s been on a tear this season, and with each passing game, his offensive ceiling seems to rise. Whether it’s creating off the dribble, hitting tough shots, or facilitating for teammates, Reaves is looking every bit like one of the league’s most complete offensive players.
“I think he’s been one of the best basketball players in this league, just the way he scores, he makes plays for others in the game,” Dončić said-before cracking a smile and adding, “It’s very good. I’m just happy he’s on my team. And that’s probably the last compliment I ever give him.”
Around the Pacific Division:
Lakers: LeBron James is listed as questionable for Sunday’s matchup with the Pelicans as he continues to manage a left foot issue. It’s the front end of a back-to-back for Los Angeles, who host the Suns on Monday. Meanwhile, Marcus Smart-who sat out Friday’s game with back spasms-is doubtful for Sunday.
Kings: Dennis Schröder underwent an MRI that revealed a mild hip flexor strain. The veteran guard, who recently lost his starting spot, is considered day-to-day and is questionable for Sacramento’s game against Memphis. The Kings will be cautious here-Schröder’s experience and defensive edge remain valuable, even in a reduced role.
Warriors: Golden State is feeling the absence of Stephen Curry, and the numbers back it up. Without him, the Warriors currently have the league’s worst offensive rating. Curry is expected to miss at least a week with a right quad contusion, and head coach Steve Kerr acknowledged how difficult it’s been to generate offense without their engine.
But there’s been a bright spot-rookie Will Richard. The 56th overall pick from this year’s draft has quickly earned a spot in both the starting and closing lineups, thanks in large part to his low turnover rate and high basketball IQ. Kerr didn’t hold back in his praise.
“You can see it,” Kerr said. “He’s just in the right spot, the right time.
He has a lot of confidence, he’s not afraid to let it fly. Never turns it over, just connects the game, he makes the game easier for everyone else.
He’s kind of wise beyond his years. I’ve got 100% trust in him.”
For a team searching for rhythm and identity without its superstar, Richard’s emergence is a welcome development-and one that could pay dividends long after Curry returns.
Bottom line: Friday night’s action gave us a little bit of everything-Dončić’s steady brilliance, Reaves’ breakout, and a glimpse of the Pacific Division’s shifting dynamics. Whether it’s All-Star bids, injury updates, or rising rookies, the storylines are heating up as we head into the heart of the season.