The NBA was stunned when the Dallas Mavericks traded their franchise cornerstone, Luka Doncic to the Los Angeles Lakers in a blockbuster deal that sent Anthony Davis, Max Christie, and a future first-round pick to Dallas. The February trade, which also involved Maxi Kleber and Markieff Morris heading to LA, sparked immediate backlash from Mavericks fans and analysts alike, with many questioning the rationale behind parting ways with a generational talent.
The move was so controversial that it led to protests and calls for the firing of the team’s general manager, Nico Harrison. Doncic, drafted third overall in 2018 and acquired by the Mavericks in a draft-day trade, had been the face of the franchise since taking over from Dirk Nowitzki.
Dallas Mavericks fans gather outside the arena.Jerome Miron-Imagn Images
Doncic led Dallas to the NBA Finals in the 2023-24 season, furthering his status as one of the league’s best players. The decision to trade him, especially after such a successful run, left many bewildered.
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In a recent Twitch livestream with streamer AyeeMont, Mavericks forward Naji Marshall shared his thoughts on the trade:
“That was crazy,” Marshall said. “I couldn’t believe it. I miss Luka though.”
Marshall’s comments reflect the sentiment of many within the Mavericks organization and fanbase, who still grapple with the departure of their former star.
Since joining the Lakers, Doncic has continued to perform at a high level, averaging 28.2 points, 7.5 assists, and 8.1 rebounds per game. Despite his offensive contributions, the Lakers were eliminated in the first round of the playoffs by the Minnesota Timberwolves, losing the series 4-1.
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Meanwhile, the Mavericks failed to make the playoffs, finishing the season with a 39-43 record and losing in the play-in tournament. The trade’s impact on both teams has been significant, with neither achieving the success they had hoped for in the first year.
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