DALLAS – The Dallas Mavericks have seen a dramatic decline in their social media following, losing nearly one million Instagram followers in the wake of trading Luka Dončić to the Los Angeles Lakers.
Before the trade, the Mavericks boasted more than 5.3 million followers on Instagram. In just three days, that number has plummeted to 4.6 million—a staggering loss of over 700,000 followers, with the decline showing no signs of slowing.
Adding to the fallout, Dončić himself has unfollowed the Mavericks on Instagram, severing a key digital connection with the franchise. However, he continues to follow the Dallas Cowboys, signaling lingering ties to the city.
Fan Outrage and Mourning
For Mavericks fans, the trade has been nothing short of devastating. Many gathered outside the American Airlines Center in protest, mourning the departure of the team’s cornerstone player. Some even staged a symbolic funeral, complete with a casket, to mark the end of Dončić’s era in Dallas.
The overwhelming sentiment among fans is shock and disbelief.
“Luka, you were supposed to stay here forever. We love you, Luka. My kids were supposed to watch you,” said Miguel Castro, who traveled two hours from Cleburne to be at the AAC.
Viral Reactions and Social Media Frenzy
The emotional response to the trade has sparked viral moments across social media. One particularly poignant video, posted by FOX 4, captured the raw reaction of a longtime fan, Finesse Fave, and has since amassed millions of views.
“This is the worst moment of my life,” Fave lamented. “Luka filled that stadium. Who’s going to fill it now?”
The clip has been widely shared, with basketball fans remixing it alongside footage of Dončić, further amplifying the heartache. Public figures, including Kansas City Chiefs quarterback Patrick Mahomes, have also weighed in, expressing their disbelief over the trade.
Trade Breakdown and What’s Next
Full Trade Details:
- Dallas Mavericks receive: Anthony Davis, Max Christie, 2029 Lakers first-round pick
- Los Angeles Lakers receive: Luka Dončić, Maxi Kleber, Markieff Morris
- Utah Jazz receive: Jalen Hood-Schifino, 2025 Clippers second-round pick, 2025 Mavericks second-round pick
The Mavericks will face the Philadelphia 76ers on Tuesday, Feb. 4, marking their first game since the blockbuster trade. However, newly acquired forward Anthony Davis has already been ruled out due to an abdominal strain, while Max Christie remains questionable.
As for Dončić, the Lakers have yet to confirm his debut date, as he has been sidelined with an injury since Christmas. However, analysts suggest he could make his first appearance in a Lakers uniform as soon as Saturday.
