Luka Doncic was presented as a member of Los Angeles Lakers on Tuesday, days after the team acquired it in a successful success with the Dallas Mavericks.
The exchange sent shock waves worldwide. The Lakers sent Anthony Davis and Max Christie to Dallas in an agreement of three teams that included Utah jazz.
The Slovenian superstar said he woke up in the middle of the night informing him that he was moving.
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Luka Doncic de los Angeles Lakers, and General Manager Rob Pelinka Field questions during an introductory Basketball Press Conference of the NBA on Tuesday, February 4, 2025 in the second, California. (AP Photo/Jae C. Hong)
“I was almost asleep when I received a call. I had to verify if it was April 1. I really did not believe it at the beginning. It was a great shock,” said the 25 -year -old, through Fox 4 news.
He opened about the emotions he felt when he had to leave the Dallas area, a place he called home since the Mavericks acquired him during the 2018 NBA Draft in an exchange with the Atlanta Hawks.
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Luka Doncic of Los Angeles Lakers speaks during an introductory Basketball Press Conference of the NBA on Tuesday, February 4, 2025 in the second, California. (AP Photo/Jae C. Hong)
“It was a great shock,” said Doncic. “(Dallas) was at home, so they were really difficult moments for me … (but now) I can play in the best club in the world, and I am excited about this new trip.
“Honestly, it was difficult at the beginning,” he added. “That first day was really difficult. I felt that these last 48 hours were a month. Emotionally, it was really difficult, but today it was much better. This is the Lakers. It is one of the best clubs in history, so I am excited about Be here. “
Doncic said he was anxious to play with LeBron James, whom he has described as his idol.
“It’s like a dream come true,” said Doncic. “I always admired him. There are so many things that I can learn from him, and I am excited to learn everything and play with him. It’s an incredible feeling.”
From left to right, the general manager of Los Angeles Lakers, Rob Pelinka, Luka Doncic, and Chief coach JJ Redick Pose for photos during an introductory press conference on Tuesday, February 4, 2025 in the second, California. (AP Photo/Jae C. Hong)
Doncic has not played since Christmas because he has been dealing with a tension in the calf. He will participate in work 5 against 5 Wednesday, and the Lakers will then decide when they will make their debut in Purple and Gold.
