The Mavericks are trading Luka Dončić in one of the most shocking trades in NBA history, acquiring Anthony Davis as the Lakers bet big on a post-LeBron future
one of the most shocking trades in NBA history (Photo: GettImages)
In one of the most shocking trades in NBA history, the league’s landscape has shifted dramatically in an instant.
According to ESPN’s Shams Charania, the Los Angeles Lakers are acquiring Slovenian superstar Luka Dončić, along with Maxi Kleber and Markieff Morris, from the Dallas Mavericks in exchange for Anthony Davis, Max Christie, and a 2029 first-round pick.
The Utah Jazz are also part of the blockbuster deal, receiving Jalen Hood-Schifino, a 2025 Los Angeles Clippers second-round pick, and a 2025 Mavericks second-round pick.
Dončić, a five-time All-Star at just 25 years old, is currently sidelined with a calf injury but has been dominant this season, averaging 28.1 points, 8.3 rebounds, and 7.8 assists per game in 22 appearances for Dallas.
According to reports, the Lakers are already thinking about life after LeBron James, who is now 40 years old. By trading for one of the league’s biggest superstars, they are positioning Luka Dončić as the future face of the franchise.
According to ESPN’s Tim MacMahon, the Mavericks had "major concerns" regarding Luka Dončić’s conditioning and the looming commitment of his potential supermax contract extension. Meanwhile, Dallas general manager Nico Harrison told ESPN, “I believe that defense wins championships. I believe that getting an All-Defensive center and an All-NBA player with a defensive mindset gives us a better chance. We’re built to win now and in the future,” seemingly hinting at concerns about Dončić’s defensive abilities.
Harrison has a good relationship with Anthony Davis, who was initially shocked by the trade but eventually became satisfied with the move.
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