Thu Apr 10 04:10:00 UTC 2025: **Lakers Clinch Playoff Berth, Dončić Scores 45 in Emotional Return to Dallas**
DALLAS, TX – Luka Dončić’s highly anticipated return to Dallas ended with a 112-97 Lakers victory, securing Los Angeles a playoff berth. Despite falling just short of his own personal 50-point goal (a fact jokingly lamented by Lakers coach JJ Redick), Dončić delivered a stellar performance with 45 points, eight rebounds, six assists, and four steals. The performance marked a season high for the Slovenian star, who achieved the same total once with the Mavericks and once previously with the Lakers.
The game was an emotional affair for Dončić, who spent his first five and a half seasons in Dallas before a surprise trade two months prior. His former teammate, Anthony Davis (traded to Dallas in the Dončić deal), contributed 13 points and 11 rebounds for the Mavericks. LeBron James led the Lakers with 27 points, including 13 in the decisive fourth quarter. Naji Marshall led the Mavericks with 23 points and eight assists.
James’ performance also saw him surpass Kareem Abdul-Jabbar for second place on the NBA’s all-time regular season games played list. The win keeps the Lakers in third place in the Western Conference standings. Meanwhile, the Mavericks, despite the loss, remain in contention for a play-in tournament spot. Both teams conclude their regular season home games on Friday.
First Piper 