The NBA was rocked by a blockbuster trade early Sunday morning as the Los Angeles Lakers and Dallas Mavericks agreed to swap Luka Don
ić and Anthony Davis as part of a three-team deal. According to reports, the Lakers received Don
ić, Maxi Kleber, and Markieff Morris, while the Mavericks took on Davis, Max Christie, and the Lakers’ 2029 first-round pick. The Utah Jazz acquired Jalen Hood-Schifino and two second-round picks to settle the trade.
The trade sent shockwaves throughout the league, with many experts and fans questioning the decision to trade away Don
ić, a 25-year-old global superstar who led the NBA with 33.4 points per game last season. Don
ić is a phenomenon, averaging 28.6 points, 8.7 rebounds, and 8.3 assists per game throughout his career and has been a consistent MVP candidate.
The trade was reportedly facilitated by the Mavericks’ concerns over their defense, which they believe will be improved by replacing Don
ić with Davis. The Lakers, meanwhile, are likely hoping that Davis’s presence will help them win their first NBA championship since 2020.
The trade has significant implications for both teams, with the Lakers now boasting a formidable duo of Don
ić and LeBron James. The Mavericks, on the other hand, will be looking to Davis to help them return to the NBA Finals and redeem themselves after falling short last season.