In a stunning move, the Dallas Mavericks are trading Luka Doncic to the Los Angeles Lakers for Anthony Davis, it has been reported by ESPN. According to a three-team deal between the Dallas Mavericks, the Los Angeles Lakers, and the Utah Jazz, L.A. will receive Doncic, Maxi Kleber, and Markieff Morris from the Mavericks. Dallas will have Davis, Max Christie and the Lakers’ 2029 first-round pick.
The Jazz will get the services of Jalen Hood-Schifino, the Clippers’ 2025 second-round pick, and the Mavs’ 2025 second-round pick.
“I believe that defense wins championships,” Mavs general manager Nico Harrison told ESPN’s Tim MacMahon, explaining his motivation to deal Doncic for Davis. “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.”
Doncic has played only 22 games this season because of injury woes. He has twice strained his left calf and has not played for the Mavericks since injuring his calf on 25th December.
The Slovenian was all set to receive a five-year, $345 million contract this summer but because of the trade, it might not be possible.
Like everyone, Lakers veteran LeBron James was surprised with the decision. Davis and Doncic were also not informed of the trade ahead of time. The news broke out after Lakers Saturday’s win against the New York Knicks.
It’s the first time in NBA history that two reigning All-NBA players have been traded for each other midseason.
The Lakers and the Dallas Mavericks are all set to take on each other on February 25th.
