With the Mavericks sliding in the standings, Anthony Davis isn’t focused on the past. He’s zeroed in on fixing what’s in front of him—and trying to steady a team still searching for its identity.
Just Another Game? Davis Downplays Reunion with LeBron
The second showdown between Anthony Davis and Luka Doncic is circled on the calendar—April 9th, Mavericks vs. Lakers. But for Davis, it’s just another game. Or so he says.
Asked about the emotions tied to facing LeBron James—his teammate for six years and co-star in the Lakers’ 2020 championship run—Davis didn’t blink.
“No emotions,” he told Fox Sports’ Melissa Rohlin after a lopsided loss to the Clippers.
A New Chapter—and the Weight of Expectations
It’s been over a month since the Lakers stunned the league by trading Anthony Davis to Dallas for Luka Doncic. Now leading a Mavericks team in flux, Davis quickly addressed fans on Mavericks TV, saying,
“I’m one of the top 75 players ever. I just want Dallas fans to know—I’ve got you. I know you lost a superstar in Luka, but you also gained one in me.”
Since returning from an adductor injury, Davis has been steady—putting up 20.6 points, 9.6 rebounds, and 3.4 assists. But with Kyrie Irving still sidelined and the Mavs slipping to 9th in the West, frustration is building.
“Just play hard,” Davis said after a blowout loss to the Clippers. “That’s not who we are. We’re better than this.”
Trending in Opposite Directions
While the Mavericks battle inconsistency, the Lakers are gaining steam. LeBron James continues to shine, and L.A. is looking increasingly like a playoff threat.
Since the All-Star break, the contrast between the two squads has been stark. Dallas has gone just 8-15, hampered by a 122.6 defensive rating—among the worst in the league. Meanwhile, the Lakers have found their groove, posting a 16-9 record and climbing to 7th in offensive rating at 119.0.
April 9th: All Eyes on the Reunion
When the Lakers visit American Airlines Center, the spotlight will land squarely on Davis and LeBron. Will there be a handshake? A cold glance? A storybook moment? The stage is set, but the script remains unwritten.
Don’t count on any theatrics. Davis isn’t chasing headlines or nostalgia. His message is clear: focus on the next play, the next win, the next step forward. Because right now, Dallas doesn’t need flashbacks—it needs fight.
