The Los Angeles Lakers and the Dallas Mavericks have absolutely shocked the basketball world with a jaw-dropping trade. According to ESPN’s Shams Charania, the Mavericks are sending their superstar Luka Doncic, along with Maxi Kleber and Markieff Morris, straight to the Lakers in a blockbuster that flips the script.
In return, Dallas will receive Anthony Davis, Max Christie, and a coveted first-round pick for 2029. This jaw-dropping move is part of a thrilling three-team deal that also ropes in the Utah Jazz. While this news has already generated a lot of buzz on social media platforms, more stunning details have emerged regarding Lakers GM Rob Pelinka’s late-night maneuvers to finalize the blockbuster trade between Doncic and Davis.
“After the Lakers and Mavericks agreed to the deal late Saturday night, Rob Pelinka made three calls in quick succession, sources told ESPN: a joint call with Anthony Davis and JJ Redick; a call to Davis’ agent, Rich Paul; and a call to LeBron James,” ESPN’s Dave McMenamin wrote in his recent post on X (formerly Twitter).
After the Lakers and Mavericks agreed to the deal late Saturday night, Rob Pelinka made three calls in quick succession, sources told ESPN: a joint call with Anthony Davis and JJ Redick; a call to Davis' agent, Rich Paul; and a call to LeBron James.
— Dave McMenamin (@mcten) February 2, 2025
Reports from Charania revealed that both Davis and Doncic were surprised to learn about their unexpected trade. The news left them visibly stunned, as neither player anticipated such a significant career shift. This development has shocked the players involved and heightened the intrigue surrounding the league’s dynamics and future matchups.
Mavericks General Manager Nico Harrison Reflects On The Doncic- Davis Trade
The Doncic-Davis trade has created a significant stir within the NBA community and across social media platforms. The breaking news prompted a flurry of reactions from a wide array of players, analysts, and fans who voiced their opinions and speculations about the potential implications of such a move.
As discussions heated up, Mavericks General Manager Nico Harrison took the opportunity to express his thoughts on the trade scenario, providing insights into the team’s strategy and the potential impacts on their roster and future.
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“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,” Harrison said (Via ESPN’s Tim MacMahon).
“I believe that defense wins championships,” Mavs GM Nico Harrison told ESPN regarding his motivation to trade Luka Doncic for Anthony 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… https://t.co/iPfQvA4str
— Tim MacMahon (@espn_macmahon) February 2, 2025
The Mavericks are currently in 9th place in the Western Conference standings with a 26-23 record. It will be exciting to see how Davis’ addition to the roster will support the team and enhance their chances of winning a championship.
