To the shock of many basketball fans, Luka Doncic, a Slovenian basketball star, has been traded to the Los Angeles Lakers from the Dallas Mavericks. The trade was monumental as Doncic left his home of over seven years while star Anthony Davis said goodbye to his Los Angeles team after over five years after being exchanged for Doncic. Moreover, the trade was a three-way team trade, as the Lakers received Doncic, Markieff Morris, and Maxi Kleber, Dallas attained Anthony Davis and Max Christie, and the Utah Jazz traded to the Mavericks Jalen-Hood-Schifino.
Many sources, such as CBS Sports, say Maverick Fans were “not pleased” with the trade, as Tim MacMahon from ESPN reports that around 1,000 fans protested against the trade of Doncic at the American Airlines Center. Additionally, CBS reported that a fan at a home Mavericks game held up a sign that read, “FIRE NICO”, referencing the General Manager of the Mavericks, Nico Harrison.
The reason for many Mavericks fans’ displeasure is Luka’s enormous talent, making the trade disappointing. Doncic is known for his incredible offense and even led the Mavericks to the playoffs with an injury. In addition, Doncic is only 25 years old and could’ve reached even higher heights if he had stayed with the Mavericks.
Harrison tells ESPN that the reason for the trade between Luka and Davis was prioritizing defense: “I believe that defense wins championships,” Harrison said, discussing the positives of Davis. “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 added in a press conference, “We feel that defense wins championships and we’re excited to go…we’re built to win now as well as in the future.” ESPN also writes that Rob Pelinka, General Manager of the Lakers, welcomed Doncic with open arms: “Luka is a one-of-a-kind, young global superstar who will lead this franchise for years to come,” he said. “His killer instincts and commitment to winning championships will be a driving force for the team.”
While Anthony Davis is out of commission to debut for the Mavericks due to injury, Doncic’s first game playing for the Lakers was enjoyable from an entertainment and athletic perspective. ESPN says that Doncic’s Laker debut averaged around 2.1 million viewers and scored massive ratings, with Doncic scoring 14 points despite only playing for 24 minutes.
The response from stars Davis and Doncic regarding the trade seemed optimistic on both ends. Doncic, post-debut Lakers game at a press conference, discussed his appreciation for his former Dallas home: “I’ve been there seven years… and it was amazing to experience those fans and the love for me. I will always appreciate that.” Doncic further reminds fans to look forward to his new position: “But now I think we should focus on the next step, and the way Lakers fans received me here was amazing.” Anthony Davis kept it short and sweet with an Instagram post expressing his appreciation for Los Angeles, stating that, “Every great story has an exciting next chapter… Dallas, here we come!”
Overall, the Luka Doncic trade was a shock to many in the basketball world. However, Doncic seems to be settling well into his new home, and Lakers fans can see bright seasons ahead for them with the young player. For All-Star Anthony Davis, only time will tell if he can pull his weight in Dallas.
