“Sending a Message to Mavs”: Lakers Fans Diss Dallas Faithful After Luka Doncic Flexes LA's Statement Edition Jersey Shorts

Luka Doncic may have unknowingly stirred a beef among Lakers and Mavericks fans over his future. On Wednesday, Doncic was asked about former Dallas executive Nico Harrison's dismissal. The Slovenian didn't mention the ex-general manager who orchestrated his blockbuster trade, but expressed love for the city of Dallas, the players and the fans.

In a follow-up question, the reporter asked Doncic about rejoining the Mavericks down the line. He claimed his focus is on the Lakers and refused to say more.

"Right now, I'm just focused on the Lakers, man. Like, no further comments," Doncic said.

After Doncic didn't explicitly say no, Mavericks fans' hopes of a reunion with their beloved former superstar shot through the roof. Many of them believed he was signalling that a return could happen one day, if not immediately.

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However, on Friday, Doncic posted an Instagram story that changed narratives on X. The superstar posted a picture of himself in the Lakers' Statement Edition jersey shorts, which have "LA" written on them. Doncic's wristband with his jersey No. 77 was also visible in the zoomed-in snap.

Here's the post (via @lukadoncic on Instagram):

Lakers star Luka Doncic's Instagram story

Interestingly, the Lakers weren't wearing this jersey on Friday when they played against the Pelicans when Doncic uploaded this picture. They rocked their white Association Edition threads.

This time, it was the Lakers fans who heavily speculated the potential meaning behind Luka Doncic's social media moves, with many suggesting he was hinting at his commitment to the team.

Lakers fans used this to mock Mavericks fans who had high hopes about a reunion. Here's how they reacted:

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Luka Doncic is adjusting well to life as Lakers superstar after the initial shock of his trade

Luka Doncic wanted to finish his career in Dallas, but things didn't pan out as expected. Instead, he learned the NBA business the hard way after getting traded to the Lakers without his knowledge, as he took the initial steps toward his prime as a 25-year-old.

Doncic spent most of last season adjusting to the shock of what had happened. While he produced the numbers and helped the Lakers win countless games, he wasn't matching the level of play he had in Dallas.

Nevertheless, after an offseason to process things and a fresh start with his first full season, Doncic is adapting better. He's also committed to the franchise by signing a three-year extension, which will keep him in LA through the 2028-29 season. He can opt out to become a free agent in 2028.

Doncic's performances have also been similar to his time with the Mavericks. After nine games, he leads the league in scoring with 33.7 points on 46.9% shooting. Doncic is also averaging 8.9 rebounds and 9.2 assists.

The Lakers are 6-3 with him in the lineup and 9-4 overall, on track for another top-six finish and a playoff berth.

Edited by Arhaan Raje