Luka Doncic's Message to Kyrie Irving Strikes an Emotional Chord with Fans
Luka Doncic's trade to the Los Angeles Lakers during the 2024-25 season remains one, if not the most shocking, trades in NBA history. After all, prior to being sent to L.A., the Slovenian star was considered an untouchable piece for the Dallas Mavericks.
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Not to mention that Doncic was fresh off leading the Mavericks to the NBA Finals the season prior. With his improved chemistry with Kyrie Irving as well, there were high hopes that they would be able to keep Dallas in title contention.
However, despite his unexpected trade, Doncic has maintained his bond with his former teammates, particularly Irving. In fact, when Irving suffered a torn ACL in March, the Lakers star was among the first to show his support.
On Thursday, Doncic and Irving's friendship was on full display once again after the former commented on the latter's Instagram post.
Amid his recovery from his injury, Irving shared several photos of himself on a yacht as well as working out and spending time with his close friends and family.
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Doncic, for his part, reacted to the post and wrote, "Thanks for the invite on the yacht."
Unsurprisingly, after a Mavericks fan page shared Luka Doncic's comment, many supporters couldn't help but get emotional. Several fans commented with crying emojis, clearly missing their former superstar.
"Breaks my heart," a commenter wrote. Another one said, "It's been zero days since I was reminded of how awful the Luka trade was."
A heartbroken supporter added, "Wish lukai lasted forever."
"just ruined my whole day thanks," a disappointed fan stated, a sentiment echoed by another follower who noted, "Alright thanks for ruining my night again."
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"2024 Mavs was the closest I've ever felt to 2011 vibes," a sixth Dallas faithful further stated, reminiscing the team's incredible run with Doncic and Irving during the 2023-24 campaign.
Los Angeles Lakers star Luka Doncic comments on Dallas Mavericks guard Kyrie Irving's latest IG post.Jerome Miron / Gary A. Vasquez - Imagn Images
While it will take time for Irving to return to the court, it's safe to expect that the next time he reunites with Doncic on the court will be an emotional one.
Related: Dalton Knecht 'Shook,' Lakers Fans Hyped Over Bronny James Dunk
This story was originally reported by Athlon Sports on Jul 4, 2025, where it first appeared.
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