The Los Angeles Lakers pulled off a blockbuster trade, sending Anthony Davis to the Dallas Mavericks in exchange for Luka Doncic. Lakers legend Magic Johnson quickly took to social media to share his thoughts on one of the biggest trades in NBA history.
Johnson called the deal “the biggest trade I’ve seen between two superstars essentially in their prime.” He praised the Lakers for acquiring the 25-year-old Doncic, calling it a long-term move that positions the franchise for success beyond LeBron James’ tenure.
The Hall of Famer highlighted Doncic’s scoring and playmaking, stating that he will “make every Laker better” while easing the burden on James. Johnson also emphasized how LeBron’s leadership could help Doncic refine his conditioning and develop a championship mindset.
“Luka Doncic will definitely make the Lakers a championship-contending team,” Johnson tweeted. “He’ll take pressure off of LeBron because of his scoring ability and playmaking and will make every Laker better!”
Johnson took a moment to thank Davis for his contributions, including helping the Lakers win the 2020 NBA championship. “Laker Nation, we have to thank AD for his five and a half seasons including a championship in 2020,” he wrote. “AD was having an MVP season which will make Dallas better, and he can go back to his natural position of playing the 4.”
The trade also involved the Utah Jazz. The Lakers received Doncic, Maxi Kleber, and Markieff Morris, while the Mavericks landed Davis, Max Christie, and a 2029 first-round pick. Utah picked up Jalen Hood-Schifino and two second-round picks.
Dallas initiated the trade talks, presenting the Lakers with an offer for Doncic. After internal discussions, Los Angeles decided to move forward, believing Doncic could be their franchise cornerstone for the future.
The trade reportedly took everyone by surprise, with NBA insider Shams Charania noting that “LeBron James had no idea this was coming. Anthony Davis had no idea this was coming. I’m told Luka Doncic is still stunned about this trade.”
Doncic is currently sidelined with a calf injury but has been averaging 28.1 points, 8.3 rebounds, and 7.8 assists this season. The Lakers see him as an elite offensive engine capable of keeping them in championship contention for years to come.
Davis, who has put up 25.7 points, 11.9 rebounds, and 3.4 assists per game, gives Dallas a dominant two-way force to pair with Kyrie Irving. The Mavericks view this as a win-now move to solidify their title chances.
The Lakers, at 28-19, are currently fifth in the Western Conference, while Dallas, at 26-24, sits in ninth place. This trade could have significant playoff implications, reshaping the power balance in the West.
Johnson also pointed out that the Lakers’ defense will take a hit after losing Christie. “Max Christie being traded to the Mavericks is going to hurt the Lakers defense, so now Finney-Smith and Vanderbilt will have to step up defensively to fill that void,” he wrote.
Johnson expressed excitement about watching Doncic and LeBron play together, saying, “You know I love assists, and with LeBron and Luka teaming up, I get to watch two of the best passers that have ever played on the same team!”
Johnson compared the acquisition of Doncic to the Dodgers signing Shohei Ohtani, calling it “amazing for the NBA.” He praised Lakers owner Jeanie Buss and general manager Rob Pelinka for executing the trade.
“I can hardly wait to see Luka in a Lakers jersey in Crypto Arena! Laker Nation, get ready!” Johnson tweeted.
The deal immediately raises questions about how Doncic and LeBron will fit together, as both are high-usage playmakers. If the two can develop chemistry, the Lakers could become one of the most dangerous teams in the league.
Meanwhile, Dallas gets an elite defender and interior presence in Davis, who should improve their defensive struggles. His ability to play alongside Irving could determine how far the Mavericks can go in the postseason.
With the NBA world still processing the trade, all eyes will be on how Doncic and Davis adjust to their new teams. The move shakes up the Western Conference and sets the stage for a thrilling second half of the season.
