Luka Doncic is set to face the Dallas Mavericks tonight in what many are calling a revenge game. The Mavs shocked the world by trading Luka Doncic, who had been the face of the franchise since they drafted him in 2018. During his time in Dallas, Doncic earned multiple All-Star appearances. And led the team on deep playoff runs, making his departure a tough pill to swallow for both the team and its fanbase.
Now, for the first time since the shocking trade, Doncic will go head-to-head with his former team and ESPN’s Stephen A. Smith has something to say about it. On First Take, Smith made a bold prediction, stating that Doncic will take this opportunity to send a message to his former team.
“Jason Kidd (Mavs Head Coach) is going to be in the building. Nico Harrison (Mavs General Manager) is going to be in the building,” Smith said. “He’s traveling with the team. Dallas and its ownership, they are going to be in the building… It’s the first time he’s going to see them since this happened… I think he’s going to come out there tonight and look to hurt people’s feelings.”
While Luka Doncic has downplayed any personal vendetta, his competitive nature is no secret. Throughout his career, he has thrived in high-pressure situations, often elevating his game when emotions run high. But this game is more than just another matchup, it’s a chance for Doncic to remind Dallas exactly what they lost. Whereas, the Mavs will be looking to spoil the narrative and prove they are just fine without him.
Read More: Dallas Mavericks Star Opens Up About Facing Former Teammate Luka Doncic: “I Expect Him To Bring His a Game”
As the game approaches, will Luka Doncic rise to the occasion and “hurt feelings” as Smith predicts? Or will the Mavs silence their former star? Share your thoughts in the comments section!
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