Luka Doncic is introduced as the newest member of the Los Angeles Lakers, at the UCLA Health Training Center, in El Segundo, California on February 4, 2025. TJ Manotoc, ABS-CBN News

LOS ANGELES — Luka Dončić’s transition to the Los Angeles Lakers has been met with excitement, but his departure from the Dallas Mavericks remains a topic of conversation.

During his introductory press conference, Dončić addressed the difficult emotions surrounding the trade, as well as the controversy regarding his contract extension and conditioning.

Having spent his entire NBA career with the Mavericks, Dončić admitted that the trade came as a surprise. 

“Honestly, it was hard. That first day was really hard. It felt like two days ago was one month ago,” Dončić said. “But every day since then, like today, has been much better. I’m just very happy to be here and for this opportunity with the Lakers.”

The Slovenian superstar had envisioned staying in Dallas for the long haul, making the trade even more difficult to process. 

Luka Doncic welcomed as newest LA Laker

“I thought I was going to spend my whole career there because loyalty is a big word for me,” he said. “But this is a fresh start. I get to play in LA, where so many legends have played and won championships.”

EXTENSION

One of the biggest questions surrounding Dončić’s trade was whether Dallas had concerns about his long-term commitment. 

Reports suggested the Mavericks worried he might not sign an extension beyond the summer. When asked directly, Dončić shut down the speculation.

“Absolutely not,” he said firmly, providing no indication that he had considered leaving Dallas voluntarily.

NBA: Doncic hungry for titles after shock Lakers trade

While Mavericks GM Nico Harrison may have had his own rationale for making the deal, Dončić made it clear that he had no plans to walk away from Dallas on his own accord.

CONDITIONING AND DEFENSIVE EFFORT

Another major topic of discussion has been Dončić’s conditioning and defensive effort. Critics have often pointed to his fitness levels as a concern, and questions about his durability that may follow him to Los Angeles.

“I know it’s not true, but it’s motivation,” Dončić said in response to the criticism. “I think I stepped it up this year, but I need to take more steps ahead. That’s what I’m working on.”

Lakers GM Rob Pelinka was quick to defend Dončić and frame his conditioning as part of an evolving journey toward greatness.

“I think greatness is an evolution and a process. If you’re striving for perfection, you’re going to have challenges to make yourself better until you don’t play anymore,” Pelinka said.

To ensure Dončić will be in peak condition, the Lakers shared that they are working closely with his personal training staff.

“Luka has trusted sports performance folks who are becoming part of our family. We’re taking a step-by-step approach to ensure his return to play is in a good and safe place,” Pelinka added.

MOVING FORWARD

Despite the difficult departure, Dončić remains focused on his new journey with the Lakers. He acknowledged the support from former rivals and fellow NBA stars who have spoken about his trade via social media.

“I saw some comments. I wasn’t really trying to be on social media these days, but I saw some comments, and it really means a lot. We are rivals, and they spoke about me so nicely. That means a lot to me,” he said.

While his time in Dallas may have ended unexpectedly, Dončić is embracing this next chapter with determination.

“I get to play for the Lakers. Not everyone can say that. Many legends have played here, many championships have been won here. That’s my goal now,” he said.

As the dust settles on his departure from Dallas, Dončić is making it clear that his focus is now on winning in Los Angeles. 

NBA fans will have to wait awhile though before they see Dončić in the purple and gold on the court as he is still rehabbing his calf strain and the Pelinka insisted they are taking it day by day and could see Dončić on the court soon.

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