NBA's shocking swap: Doncic moves to Lakers, Davis to Mavs
Luka Doncic is moving from the Dallas Mavericks to the Los Angeles Lakers in exchange for Anthony Davis. The trade surprised everyone, including the players themselves.
The NBA's swap of Luka Doncic for Anthony Davis was a huge surprise. American media emphasize that it has been a long time since such a spectacular trade between clubs.
The transaction was announced right after the Los Angeles Lakers' game against the New York Knicks. In that game, LeBron James led the Lakers to a 128:112 victory, recording an impressive triple-double. Davis was absent from the Lakers' lineup due to an abdominal injury.
After the game, James emphasized the need for a more team-focused approach in the absence of Anthony Davis. The trade involving Doncic and Davis came as an unexpected move, not only for the Lakers organization but also for the players. The Los Angeles Times reported that the transaction took everyone in the Lakers' locker room by surprise.
Secret negotiations in the NBA
ESPN reporter Shams Charania revealed that the deal was negotiated in secret.
Charania reported that LeBron James had no prior indication, Anthony Davis was equally unaware, and Luka Doncic is reportedly still in shock over the development.
The 25-year-old Doncic, who was drafted by the Atlanta Hawks in 2018, went straight to the Dallas Mavericks. Last season, he led them to the finals, where they lost to the Boston Celtics. In the current season, he averages 28.1 points, 8.3 rebounds, and 7.8 assists per game but often struggles with injuries.
Details of the agreement
Six years older, Davis joined the Lakers in 2019, winning a championship with them in 2020. In the current season, he averaged 25.7 points, 11.9 rebounds, and 3.4 assists per game.
According to ESPN, the deal also includes the transfer of German centre Max Christie to Dallas and a first-round draft pick in 2029, while Maxi Kleber and Markieff Morris will join the California team.
The trade of Doncic for Davis is one of the most surprising events in the NBA in recent years. The transaction came as a complete surprise to all parties.
