Luka Doncic was launched as a member of the Los Angeles Lakers Tuesday, days after the staff acquired him in a blockbuster commerce with the Dallas Mavericks.
The commerce despatched shock waves throughout the sports activities world. The Lakers despatched Anthony Davis and Max Christie to Dallas in a three-team deal that included the Utah Jazz.
The Slovenian famous person stated he awakened in the midst of the night time to the decision informing him he was on the transfer.
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The Los Angeles Lakers’ Luka Doncic, proper, and normal supervisor Rob Pelinka discipline questions throughout an introductory NBA basketball press convention Tuesday, Feb. 4, 2025, in El Segundo, Calif. (AP Photograph/Jae C. Hong)
“I used to be virtually asleep once I bought a name. I needed to examine to see if it was April 1. I did not actually imagine it at first. It was an enormous shock,” the 25-year-old stated, through FOX 4 Information.
He opened up in regards to the feelings he felt as he needed to depart the Dallas space, a spot he’s referred to as residence for the reason that Mavericks acquired him in the course of the 2018 NBA Draft in a commerce with the Atlanta Hawks.
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The Los Angeles Lakers’ Luka Doncic speaks throughout an introductory NBA basketball press convention Tuesday, Feb. 4, 2025, in El Segundo, Calif. (AP Photograph/Jae C. Hong)
“It was an enormous shock,” Doncic stated. “(Dallas) was residence, so it was actually arduous moments for me. … (However now) I get to play within the biggest membership on the planet, and I’m excited for this new journey.
“Truthfully, it was arduous at first,” he added. “That first day was actually arduous. I felt like these final 48 hours was one month. Emotionally, it was actually arduous, however right now was a lot better. That is the Lakers. It’s probably the greatest golf equipment in historical past, so I’m excited to be right here.”
Doncic stated he was wanting ahead to taking part in alongside LeBron James, who he’s described as his idol.
“It is similar to a dream come true,” Doncic stated. “I at all times appeared as much as him. There’s so many issues I can study from him, and I am simply excited to study all the things and get to play with him. It is an incredible feeling.”
From left to proper, Los Angeles Lakers normal supervisor Rob Pelinka, Luka Doncic and head coach JJ Redick pose for photographs throughout an introductory press convention Tuesday, Feb. 4, 2025, in El Segundo, Calif. (AP Photograph/Jae C. Hong)
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Doncic has not performed since Christmas as a result of he’s been coping with a calf pressure. He’ll take part in 5-on-5 work Wednesday, and the Lakers will later determine when he’ll make his debut in purple and gold.
The Related Press contributed to this report.
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