Ahead of the matchup Lakers head coach JJ Redick made sure to deliver a classy message to his former All-NBA center as he returns to Los Angeles, singing his praises while also expressing appreciation for his willingness to work with Redick.

As the Dallas Mavericks prepare to face the Los Angeles Lakers for the first time since their blockbuster trade, emotions are running high, especially for Lakers head coach JJ Redick. In his pregame press conference,

On Tuesday, the primary storyline centered around Luka Doncic playing against his former team for the first time as the Los Angeles Lakers were set to host the Dallas Mavericks. Before the game, however,

An injury denies Davis the chance to play in the teams’ first meeting since their shocking trade, but the 10-time All-Star gets a 2½-minute tribute video in the first quarter and a warm ovation.

Anthony Davis will make his return to Los Angeles on Tuesday for the first time since the Lakers traded him to the Dallas Mavericks in return for Luka Dončić. According to NBA insider Chris Haynes, the Lakers plan to honor Davis with an "emotional" tribute video ahead of the contest between Los Angeles and Dallas.

Many fans envisioned Anthony Davis’ career finishing out with the Lakers, including AD himself. In almost every timeline, he would play out his career in Southern California before having his jersey raised to the rafters.

The LA Lakers are proving once again how to handle the business side of the NBA in a way the Mavericks didn't with Luka Doncic.