It’s a night of mixed emotions in LA. Obviously, the biggest story is Luka Doncic going head-to-head against his former team for the first time since the trade that shook the basketball world. While Luka Doncic’s exit from Dallas came with its fair share of tension, Anthony Davis and the Lakers had a much smoother breakup.

Sure, the trade caught The Brow off guard—just like everyone else—but there was no bad blood on his way out. And tonight, as he stepped back onto his former home court, Laker Nation made sure he felt the love. A standing ovation. An emotional tribute. A reminder that, no matter where he plays next, AD’s impact in LA won’t be forgotten.

Unfortunately, Davis did not suit up tonight as he is still recovering from the left adductor strain that he suffered during his Mavs debut earlier this month. But he accompanied his team to the Crypto.com Arena for the highly-anticipated Lakers clash. As expected, it was a joyful reunion for him as the Lakers played a heartwarming tribute video during the game’s first timeout, highlighting the best moments from AD’s six-year tenure with the franchise. Of course, capped by the 2020 Championship run.

“THANK YOU, AD!” The jumbotron read, as Davis soaked in all the love from the thousands of fans in the arena, who were on their feet to honor him. Even his longtime partner LeBron James, JJ Redick and the rest of the Lakers squad applauded AD, as he thanked everyone for the wholesome welcome. And TNT reporter Allie LaForce detailed Davis’ emotions following the tribute, “He didn’t look very emotional but he certainly addressed the crowd. Gave a big wave with a big smile. It was a nice moment.”

When Davis inked a three-year $186 million extension with the Lakers two years ago, people expected him to be the face of the franchise for the foreseeable future. Even Rob Pelinka had the same vision as he publicly raved about AD’s talent and leadership. However, everything changed when Nico Harrison approached Pelinka with a pitch to trade Luka, and the deal was too good to let go for the Lakers GM.

But Davis understood that it was all part of the business and remained grateful for his time in LA. Well, his return would have been even more memorable had he been available to play. Unfortunately, there is still some time left before that happens.

Jason Kidd reveals Major Health Update on Anthony Davis

After touching on Davis’ emotional tribute, Allie LaForce dropped an important update straight from Jason Kidd.

“Coach Kidd told us before this one, they will know more in two weeks. But he said he’s been with the team, shooting, even walking through plays and scenarios with the team to be ready when he’s back.”

Translation? AD isn’t just sitting around. Even though he’s still weeks away from being reevaluated and set to miss more games, he’s already locked in—mentally and physically—getting himself ready for his return.

Even in a previous interview, Jason Kidd echoed the same optimism, saying, “He’s doing better. I saw him in the weight room and then on the court shooting, so a lot of positive stuff. It’s always good to see.”

That’s exactly the kind of update Mavs fans needed to hear. Right now, Dallas is sitting at eighth in the West, barely holding onto their playoff spot. Struggles have been real, and they need all the firepower they can get. Getting a healthy Anthony Davis back? That could be the boost they need to turn things around.

Even in his debut, he scored 26 points and sixteen rebounds before leaving the game because of injury. So, AD has proven that he can impact winning when healthy. Hopefully, he will return soon and do with the Mavs what he did in LA for six years to deserve such a heartwarming reception.