Quentin Grimes Defends Luka Dončić Amid Mavericks Criticism
Los Angeles Lakers guard Quentin Grimes has stepped up to defend his teammate Luka Dončić in the wake of ongoing criticism from Dončić’s former team, the Dallas Mavericks. Ever since Dončić was traded to the Lakers on February 2, 2025, reactions from the Mavericks’ organization and fanbase have been mixed, with some questioning his leadership, commitment, and fit within their system. Grimes, however, is making it clear that he stands firmly behind his star teammate.
Mavericks’ Criticism of Dončić
Following Dončić’s departure, several Mavericks insiders and former teammates have voiced concerns about his time in Dallas. Reports surfaced suggesting that some within the organization felt he dominated the ball too much, limiting the effectiveness of other players. Others pointed to his defensive effort and conditioning as areas that needed improvement. The criticism became more pronounced as the Mavericks struggled to find consistency in their post-Dončić era.
Recently, Mavericks head coach Jason Kidd subtly suggested that the team was now playing a “more balanced and cohesive brand of basketball,” seemingly taking a jab at Dončić’s playing style. Additionally, former Mavericks big man Dwight Powell hinted in an interview that Dončić’s departure allowed other players to “flourish in their natural roles.”
Grimes Comes to Dončić’s Defense
Quentin Grimes, who was acquired by the Lakers at the trade deadline along with Dončić in a blockbuster deal, did not hesitate to call out the unfair criticism directed at his teammate. Speaking to reporters after the Lakers’ latest victory over the New York Knicks, Grimes dismissed the negativity, emphasizing Dončić’s dedication and impact on winning.
“People can say whatever they want, but Luka is one of the best players in the world,” Grimes said. “He’s unselfish, he plays the right way, and he just wants to win. It’s crazy to me how people switch up so fast. When he was dropping triple-doubles every other night in Dallas, everybody loved him. Now that he’s gone, people are rewriting the story. That’s not fair.”
Grimes, who has quickly developed chemistry with Dončić in the Lakers’ backcourt, also highlighted the leadership qualities that the Slovenian superstar brings to the team.
“Luka cares about his teammates. He’s always checking in, making sure we’re good. He puts us in positions to succeed, and you can see that on the court. Just look at how he and LeBron [James] have been playing together. It’s special,” Grimes added.
Dončić’s Strong Start in Los Angeles
Since arriving in Los Angeles, Dončić has been instrumental in the Lakers’ success, helping them climb to the second seed in the Western Conference with an eight-game winning streak. He has seamlessly adjusted to playing alongside LeBron James and Anthony Davis, averaging 29.7 points, 8.5 rebounds, and 10.2 assists per game in his first 10 outings with the team.
Lakers head coach Darvin Ham also weighed in on the situation, backing both Dončić and Grimes’ statements.
“Luka is a generational talent. What he’s doing for us speaks for itself. Every great player faces criticism, but we know who he is and what he brings to this team,” Ham said.
Moving Forward
With the Lakers surging and Dončić thriving in his new environment, the noise from Dallas seems to be more about resentment than reality. Grimes’ public defense of Dončić only reinforces the strong bond developing within the Lakers’ locker room.
As the season progresses, Dončić will have a chance to silence his critics even further, potentially setting up a dramatic postseason showdown between the Lakers and the Mavericks. If that happens, there’s no doubt that Dončić, with the unwavering support of teammates like Grimes, will be ready to prove his former team wrong.
