The NBA world was in shock when the blockbuster trade between the Dallas Mavericks and Los Angeles Lakers was finalized, sending Luka Doncic to L.A. in exchange for Anthony Davis. The move was completely unexpected, as there had been no speculation or rumors leading up to the deal.
However, reports suggest that discussions between the two franchises began nearly a month ago when Mavericks general manager Nico Harrison first approached Lakers general manager Rob Pelinka. At first, Pelinka reportedly dismissed the idea as a joke, as he couldn’t believe that the Mavericks would consider moving their young superstar.
However, he soon realized that Harrison was serious, as Dallas had grown increasingly concerned about Doncic’s injury history. Moreover, they no longer viewed him as the franchise cornerstone. Recently, a photo surfaced on social media showing Pelinka and Harrison meeting at a coffee shop to discuss the deal.
A photo of the coffee shop meeting between Rob Pelinka and Nico Harrison to discuss Luka-AD trade has been released 👀
— Legion Hoops (@LegionHoops) February 8, 2025
(via @wfaa) pic.twitter.com/hZ4p96Jm0t
Fans quickly noticed Pelinka’s shocked expression in the image, speculating that this might have been the exact moment Harrison first proposed the trade. While some fans found the image amusing, others mocked the two executives for discussing such a major transaction in public.
Pelinka looks like he didn’t hear Harrison correctly lol
— Craig (@Craigdh247) February 8, 2025
Pelinka thought he was lying lmao pic.twitter.com/B1jy1fh21P
— Paulos (@LoswitheMos) February 8, 2025
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Pelinka could not believe what Harrison was telling him 🤣🤣 pic.twitter.com/4Mc39sa6z5
— Anthony G. Halkias II (@anthonyghalkias) February 8, 2025
Really at a fucking coffee shop talking about giving up a generational talent. Crazy fleece Rob.
— Nando 🍀 (@nando17celtics) February 8, 2025
Robbed in broad daylight 💔💔
— Hater Central (@TheHateCentral) February 8, 2025
Luka Doncic Reflects On Joining LeBron James At The Lakers
After the Los Angeles Lakers’ win over the Golden State Warriors, Luka Doncic shared his excitement about joining LeBron James as a teammate. The former Mavs star expressed that he looks forward to learning from the basketball legend.
“We talked. For me, I can learn so many things from him, like how he approaches the game. He’s been playing at the highest level for 20-plus years. I’m just going to learn a lot of things,” Doncic said.
For the Lakers, the addition of Doncic is a sign that they are preparing for life after LeBron, as the superstar nears the end of his career. Dončić is seen as the young star to build around in the future. Meanwhile, the Mavericks, in return, acquire elite big man Anthony Davis in the trade. Only time will tell which team will come out on top from this blockbuster trade.
Also Read: Mavericks GM Nico Harrison Receiving Disturbing Death Threats After Stunning Luka Doncic Trade
