The Los Angeles Lakers have kept Anthony Davis since 2019, where the former number one draft pick helped lead the Lakers to an NBA championship in 2020. On the other hand, superstar Luka Dončić led the Dallas Mavericks to the NBA finals, where they ultimately lost to the reigning Boston Celtics in 2024.
In early February, a huge trade involving the Lakers, Mavericks, and Utah Jazz sent both stars to different high-caliber teams. Davis was traded to the Mavericks, and Dončić went to the Lakers. This blockbuster move is set to change the dynamics of both teams and their playing styles.
Davis, a key defensive presence for the Lakers and one of their dominant big men, plays as a center. He was traded to the Mavericks alongside teammate Max Christie and a 2029 first-round NBA draft pick.
Dončić, a flashy forward and guard, has carried the Mavericks in the playoffs, but his defensive liabilities were a concern. This, in part, led to his trade. Dončić was traded with teammates Maxi Kleber and Markieff Morris.
The Utah Jazz, while not losing any superstar assets, did benefit from the trade. They received shooting guard Jalen Hood-Schifino from the Lakers, along with future NBA draft picks.
Trades involving high-caliber players often generate significant buzz, especially when the players involved are seen as franchise cornerstones. Previous trades, such as Damian Lillard joining the Milwaukee Bucks to team up with Giannis Antetokounmpo, and Kevin Durant moving to the Suns to join Devin Booker, have created super teams that have reshaped the league.
Unlike those trades, however, this deal involves a direct exchange of superstars. The Lakers now feature a big roster with LeBron James and his new partner Dončić, while the Mavericks still have a strong lineup centered around Kyrie Irving and his new defensive teammate, Anthony Davis.
So, what could this trade mean for the NBA? What impact will these players have on their new teams? Will these moves set the stage for an NBA championship run, or is it just a publicity stunt? Time will tell.
James and Dončić share similar playing styles despite playing different positions. While both are undoubtedly talented, having two players with similar skills could lead to conflicts on the court, as one might not complement the other. One solution would be for the two to alternate during games, ensuring both showcase their skills. Another possibility is for one player to adapt to the other, allowing for smoother integration thanks to their familiarity with each other’s playing style.
For Davis and Irving, the pairing works well. Davis is a defensive stopper, and Irving is an offensive playmaker—exactly what the Mavericks were looking for. While the Mavericks will miss Dončić’s playmaking, Davis should strengthen their defense significantly.
Despite this major exchange of superstars, the Mavericks now have a more complete team with Davis and Irving. Meanwhile, the Lakers are now projected to have one of the NBA’s most talented rosters with Dončić joining James.
With the 2025 season approaching and the playoffs not far behind, this trade is sure to draw attention, especially if the Mavericks and Lakers face off. The potential matchup would attract a lot of viewers, eager to watch James compete against his former championship partner, Davis.
