While predominantly a shocking move from a basketball standpoint, the Dallas Mavericks' decision to trade five-time All-Star Luka Doncic to the Los Angeles Lakers also hurt the Slovenian superstar, who had grown accustomed to life in Dallas, as well as life as the team's franchise player.
But the deal also forced Doncic to part ways with Mavericks teammates, such as Kyrie Irving, with whom he had fostered close relationships off the court during his tenure with the team. After the Lakers' 108-102 win over the Los Angeles Clippers on Sunday, Doncic, speaking to reporters, shared some kind words about another such player, former Mavericks and now-Clippers forward Derrick Jones Jr., with whom Doncic played alongside during Dallas's run to the NBA Finals in 2023-24.
Luka Doncic to me on Derrick Jones Jr.:
— Tomer Azarly (@TomerAzarly) March 3, 2025
“First of all, he’s an amazing guy just to be around. Second, his defense, his ability to jump, his ability to shoot. Together, we were great I think. Obviously, that’s one guy I miss. Maybe we’ll get some dinner now that we’re in L.A.” pic.twitter.com/rOdlTeLa6k
"First of all, he's an amazing guy," Doncic said. "Just to be around. Second of all, his defense, his ability to jump, his ability to shoot. Together we were great, I think. Obviously one guy I miss. We’ll get some dinner in LA."
Doncic and Jones Jr. shared an embrace on the court after Saturday's Lakers-Clippers game, and it's clear that the two developed a connection both on and off the court during their lone season together in Dallas. On the court, Doncic's playmaking ability paired with Jones Jr.'s athleticism and leaping ability created countless lob opportunities for the duo. Off the court, Jones Jr.'s personality and attitude made an impression on Doncic.
Luka Doncic on Derrick Jones Jr.:
— Noah Weber (@noahweber00) April 29, 2024
“Overall, he’s been great, not just today. He’s amazing, never complain. Great person, great teammate. He’s the guy that you always want to have on your team. I’m glad he’s on our team, we just got to match his energy.” pic.twitter.com/8oVHe959LB
The feeling was—and still is—mutual for Jones Jr., who called Doncic a "brother" in a recent conversation with Sportskeeda.
"He always showed that he cared about his teammates on and off the court," Jones Jr. said. "He's not a selfish guy. Whenever he was doing something, he was always letting the whole group know. If he wants the whole group to be there, he's always going to make sure of it."
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This article was originally published on www.si.com as Luka Doncic Shared Sweet Message for Ex-Mavericks Teammate Who He Misses.
