JUST IN: Naji Marshall Reflects on Emotional Impact of Luka Dončić’s Trade
Dallas Mavericks forward Naji Marshall recently opened up about the emotional toll following the unexpected trade of franchise cornerstone Luka Dončić to the Los Angeles Lakers. Despite sharing the court for just 17 games, Marshall developed a profound respect and camaraderie with Dončić, making the trade particularly poignant.
In an appearance on The Old Man and the Three podcast, Marshall candidly expressed his feelings: “I mean, I understood that, like, business is business as far as the NBA, but I was hurt, man. Luka’s my dawg, for real.” He further elaborated on Dončić’s character, describing him as “just the chillest guy ever, bro. You just feel like his best friend from day one. He’s just a great dude. Never mad, just always happy.”
The trade, which sent Dončić, Markieff Morris, and Maxi Kleber to the Lakers in exchange for Anthony Davis, Max Christie, and a 2029 first-round pick, marked a significant shift for the Mavericks. Marshall acknowledged Davis’s positive impact, stating, “I love AD. That’s my guy right there. Like, he’s been great with us. You know, he welcomed us with open arms.” However, the personal loss of Dončić remained a poignant aspect of the transition. 
Dončić’s return to Dallas on April 9 was an emotionally charged event. He received a heartfelt tribute video, during which he was visibly moved to tears, before leading the Lakers to a 112–97 victory with a standout performance of 45 points, eight rebounds, six assists, and four steals. Marshall, who led the Mavericks with 23 points and eight assists that night, reflected on the moment: “It was beautiful. Luka means so much to this city and vice versa… and it’s just all love.”
Despite the emotional upheaval, Marshall remains optimistic about the Mavericks’ future. The team secured the No. 1 overall pick in the 2025 NBA Draft, a development that Marshall greeted with enthusiasm. Expressing his excitement about the anticipated selection of Duke standout Cooper Flagg, Marshall stated, “I love his game, honestly… He’s a winner. I love how he hoop… The dog he has. I’m a dog, so that’s what I’m really looking for, and he’s a dog, too.”
As the Mavericks embark on this new chapter, Marshall’s reflections underscore the deep bonds formed between teammates and the resilience required to navigate the ever-evolving landscape of professional basketball.
