Featured Image Credit: Getty
Topics: LA Lakers, Lebron James, NBA, Basketball
Luke Davies
Luka Doncic has finally broken his silence on his shock move to the LA Lakers - and LeBron James has made his feelings clear.
Doncic, 25, was part of a multi-player trade deal with Maxi Kleber and Markieff Morris also joining LA.
Meanwhile, Anthony Davis and Max Christie joined the Mavericks. Jalen Hood-Schifino and a future second-round pick headed to the Utah Jazz.
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And fans were keen to see exactly what Doncic had to say about his historic move. On Sunday evening he finally broke his silence by posting a statement to social media.
“Dear Dallas, seven years ago, I came here as a teenager to pursue my dream of playing basketball at the highest level,” read a statement posted to X.
“I thought I'd spend my career here and I wanted so badly to bring you a championship. The love and support you all have given me is more than I could have ever dreamed of.
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“For a young kid from Slovenia coming to the US for the first time, you made North Texas feel like home. In good times and bad, from injuries to the NBA Finals, your support never changed.
“Thank you not only for sharing my joy in our best moments, but also for lifting me up when I needed it most.
“To all the organizations I've worked with throughout the Dallas community, thank you for letting me contribute to your important work and join you in bringing light to those who need it.
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“As I start the next part of my basketball journey, I am leaving a city that will always feel like a home away from home.
“Dallas is a special place, and Mavs fans are special fans. Thank you, from the bottom of my heart. - Luka.”
The deal could see a changing of the guard at the Lakers, with star man James, 40, seemingly entering the twilight years of his career.
James gave his thoughts on Doncic when speaking back in 2022.
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“I love everything about his game,” James said. "I love everything about him. The way he plays the game reminds me of the way I play the game. We’re just triple threats. We rebound.
"We pass, which is the number one thing on our mind, trying to keep our teammates engaged and keeping our teammates feeling good on the floor, keeping our teammates in rhythm.
“And we will put 40 on you too if you disrespect us.”