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[Saba Sports News] Dallas Mavericks fans are still reeling from the stunning departure of their franchise star, Luka Doncic. In what’s being called one of the most shocking trades in recent sports memory, Doncic was dealt to the Los Angeles Lakers over the weekend in a three-team blockbuster that also involved the Utah Jazz.
For Mavericks fans, the news felt unreal — and days later, it still does.
Doncic has since said his goodbyes to Dallas and its fans in a heartfelt letter posted shortly after the trade. His fiancée, Anamaria Goltes, also shared a simple but heartfelt message with Mavs supporters, posting “Thank you 💙” on her Instagram Stories.
Doncic and Goltes built a life in Dallas — they got engaged and became parents in 2023 during his fifth NBA season — making the move especially emotional.
Drafted by the Atlanta Hawks in 2018 and traded to Dallas for Trae Young’s draft rights, Doncic spent over six seasons with the Mavericks, leading them to the 2024 NBA Finals and finishing third in MVP voting last season.
But less than a year later, the Mavericks sent him to L.A. alongside Maxi Kleber and Markieff Morris. In return, Dallas received Anthony Davis, Max Christie, and a 2029 first-round pick. The Jazz picked up guard Jalen Hood-Schifino and two second-round selections.
Now 25, Doncic begins a new chapter in Los Angeles, leaving behind impressive stats and countless memories: 28.6 points, 8.7 rebounds, and 8.3 assists per game across 422 appearances with the Mavericks.
As Doncic and Goltes turn the page, Mavericks fans are left with gratitude, heartbreak, and the legacy of a generational talent who gave everything to Dallas.