In a stunning turn of events, NBA superstars Luka Doncic and Anthony Davis are switching teams. The Dallas Mavericks are trading Doncic to the Los Angeles Lakers in exchange for Davis, marking one of the biggest trades in recent league history.
According to sources, the reigning Western Conference champion Mavericks will send Doncic, Maxi Kleber, and Markieff Morris to the Lakers, while Davis and Max Christie head to Dallas. The Utah Jazz are also involved, reportedly acquiring Jalen Hood-Schifino and two draft picks as part of the multi-team deal.
The news, first reported by ESPN, broke shortly after the Lakers secured a victory over the New York Knicks. Davis, who was absent from the game due to an abdominal injury, has remained in Los Angeles for medical evaluations. Meanwhile, Doncic has not played for the Mavericks since Christmas Day due to a strained left calf.
Why This Trade Happened
Mavericks general manager Nico Harrison highlighted the team's focus on defense, stating, "I believe that defense wins championships. Adding an All-Defensive center and an All-NBA player with a defensive mindset positions us for success both now and in the future."
The move pairs Doncic with LeBron James in Los Angeles, forming a dynamic new duo, while Davis teams up with Kyrie Irving in Dallas. This also reunites Doncic with Lakers head coach JJ Redick, his former Mavericks teammate.
Reaction from Around the NBA
The trade sent shockwaves through the league, with players and analysts expressing disbelief. Suns star Devin Booker recalled hearing the news during a game, initially confusing Doncic for another player.
"Luka Garza?" Booker asked, reflecting the widespread surprise that Dallas would trade their franchise cornerstone.
Kevin Durant echoed the sentiment, calling the move "insane" and emphasizing the unpredictability of the NBA.
Social media erupted with reactions from players and fans alike. Cleveland center Tristan Thompson speculated there was "a deeper story behind it," while Chiefs quarterback Patrick Mahomes simply posted, "Wait, what?" on X. Knicks guard Jalen Brunson even questioned if it was an April Fools' prank.
What’s Next?
The Mavericks face the Cleveland Cavaliers on Sunday, while the Lakers will play their crosstown rivals, the Los Angeles Clippers, on Tuesday. Both Doncic and Davis are recovering from injuries, and their debut dates with their new teams remain uncertain as the trade awaits NBA approval.
Luka Doncic’s Historic Numbers
Among players with at least 400 games, Doncic’s career scoring average of 28.6 points ranks third in NBA history, trailing only Michael Jordan and Wilt Chamberlain. Last season, he finished third in MVP voting after posting one of the greatest statistical seasons ever: 33.9 points, 9.8 assists, and 9.2 rebounds per game.
Doncic, who turns 26 this month, made history with a 73-point performance against Atlanta on January 26, 2024—tying the fourth-highest single-game scoring total in NBA history. Only Chamberlain (100 and 78 points) and Kobe Bryant (81 points) have surpassed that mark.
Anthony Davis’ Legacy and Future
Davis, a 10-time All-Star and NBA champion, turns 32 next month. A member of the NBA's 75th Anniversary Team, he played a pivotal role in the Lakers’ 2020 championship run and is a five-time All-NBA selection.
Financially, the trade could cost Doncic significantly. He was eligible to sign a supermax contract this summer worth $345 million over five years. However, due to the trade, his maximum extension would likely be capped at $230 million over five years.
This blockbuster trade not only reshapes both franchises but also sends a strong message that both teams are fully committed to championship contention. As the NBA world processes this massive shake-up, all eyes will be on Doncic and Davis as they begin the next chapters of their careers.