LOS ANGELES — In a stunning move that reshapes the NBA landscape, the Los Angeles Lakers have acquired superstar guard Luka Doncic from the Dallas Mavericks in exchange for Anthony Davis and a 2029 first-round pick, sources confirmed to ESPN’s Shams Charania on Saturday night.
As part of the blockbuster deal, the Lakers will also receive forwards Maxi Kleber and Markieff Morris, while Dallas adds young guard Max Christie to its roster. The Utah Jazz, a third party in the trade, will receive Lakers rookie Jalen Hood-Schifino as well as second-round picks in 2025 from both the LA Clippers and Mavericks.
Yes, this is real. Sources tell ESPN: Full trade:
— Shams Charania (@ShamsCharania) February 2, 2025
– Lakers: Luka Doncic, Maxi Kleber, Markieff Morris
– Mavericks: Anthony Davis, Max Christie, 2029 LAL 1st
– Jazz: Jalen Hood-Schifino, 2025 Clippers 2nd, 2025 Mavericks 2nd https://t.co/bltojdTaQj
The decision to move Doncic, a four-time NBA All-Star and the face of the Mavericks franchise, comes as a shock to fans, but sources indicate that concerns over his conditioning and the financial commitment of another impending supermax contract extension played a significant role in Dallas’ willingness to part ways with the 25-year-old Slovenian phenom.
“I believe that defense wins championships,” Mavericks general manager Nico Harrison told ESPN’s Tim MacMahon when discussing the motivation behind the trade. “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.”
Davis, an eight-time All-Star and one of the league’s premier defensive anchors, will provide Dallas with a formidable presence in the paint alongside star guard Kyrie Irving. Meanwhile, Doncic joins forces with LeBron James in Los Angeles, forming one of the most dynamic offensive duos in NBA history. The move also signals the Lakers’ commitment to remaining in championship contention as James nears the twilight of his illustrious career.
While reactions from fans and analysts continue to pour in, the implications of this seismic trade will undoubtedly be felt for years to come. With the 2024-25 NBA season on the horizon, all eyes will be on Dallas and Los Angeles as they navigate their new-look rosters in pursuit of an NBA championship.