Sights and sounds from Luka Doncic's return to Dallas

Sixty-six days ago, Luka Doncic's career changed forever.

After he spent his first 6 seasons with the Dallas Mavericks, winning Rookie of the Year (2019), making five All-NBA teams and leading the franchise to its first NBA Finals since 2011, the unthinkable happened.

During the midnight hour on Feb. 2, Doncic was traded to the Los Angeles Lakers as part of a blockbuster deal for Anthony Davis, Max Christie and draft rights to a 2029 Lakers first-round pick. The trade was so shocking that other players from around the association believed it to be fake on social media.

He finally made his return to the American Airlines Center to face his former team on Wednesday. Doncic dominated with 45 points, 8 rebounds and 6 assists in a 112-97 Lakers win. His 45 points are the third most by a player in his first road game against a former team in NBA history, according to ESPN Research.

Here are the sights and sounds from the Lakers guard's return to Dallas.

Sports world praises Doncic's performance

Former Lakers star Pau Gasol expressed his support for Doncic after his big game.Philadelphia 76ers guard Quentin Grimes was traded by the Mavericksin February, two days after the Doncic deal. He made sure to give his former teammate a shoutout.

Fans show love as Doncic exits the game

After a dominant performance in his return, Doncic received a standing ovation as he subbed out with 1:34 left in the game.

Dallas' tribute sparks emotional and joyful response