Two-time NBA MVP Giannis Antetokounmpo expressed disbelief when he first heard about Luka Doncic’s trade to the Los Angeles Lakers, describing it as “fake news.”
“I thought it was fake news. It’s insane,” Giannis shared, via Eric Nehm, reflecting on the trade that sent shockwaves through the NBA. “I’ve played against Luka, AD, and all the players involved. This is the world we’re living in—it’s business.”
Giannis, who is well-acquainted with both Doncic and Anthony Davis, went on to emphasize the unpredictable nature of the NBA. He explained that, despite a player’s accomplishments, the business side of basketball always has the final say.
“If a 25-year-old who just led his team to the Finals seven months ago, a guy who’s been a top scorer and MVP candidate, can be traded, nobody’s safe,” he said, referencing Doncic’s incredible achievements.
The Bucks forward continued, “You get evaluated every single day. You don’t take nothing for granted. Being an All-Star, you don’t take it for granted. Being able to go out there and put the jersey on and represent your team, you don’t take that for granted.”
Giannis expressed his love for the game, adding, “Every second that you play in an NBA game, I love it, I try to play with joy. And at the same time, I understand the business of basketball. Sometimes teams need to make the best moves that are good for their organization, for their position, and for their own pursuit of greatness and championships.”
However, he also stressed that there shouldn’t be double standards in how players are treated compared to teams making business moves. “When a player believes that he can go to a different team and have a chance to win a championship, we cannot crucify the person and say that he’s not loyal and didn’t do the right thing,” Giannis said.
The blockbuster trade saw the Lakers acquiring Doncic, Maxi Kleber, and Markieff Morris, while the Mavericks received Davis, Max Christie, and a 2029 first-round pick. The Utah Jazz played a facilitating role, securing Jalen Hood-Schifino and two second-round picks.
According to reports, the Mavericks approached Los Angeles with the trade offer, and after internal discussions, the Lakers decided that Doncic would be their long-term cornerstone.
Though Doncic is currently sidelined with a calf injury, he has been stellar this season, averaging 28.1 points, 8.3 rebounds, and 7.8 assists. The Lakers are betting on his offensive skills and playmaking to lead them for years to come.
Meanwhile, Davis’ impressive numbers for Dallas—averaging 25.7 points, 11.9 rebounds, and 3.4 assists—add a defensive boost to their high-scoring lineup. The Mavericks see this as a move to contend immediately for a championship.
With the Lakers at 28-19, currently ranked fifth in the Western Conference, and the Mavericks at 26-24, sitting in ninth, this trade could have major playoff implications. Both teams will need time to adjust to their new rosters.
The Lakers’ acquisition of Doncic is a huge gamble, as they will need to carefully manage his health and integrate him with LeBron James. Their partnership is one of the season’s most anticipated storylines.
Dallas, on the other hand, gains a star in Davis who brings both defensive stability and veteran leadership to their roster. The Mavericks hope this trade will push them closer to title contention.
The Jazz, continuing their focus on the future, add young talent to their collection, securing valuable assets in Hood-Schifino and two second-round picks.
This trade has reshaped the Western Conference landscape, setting the stage for an exciting postseason race. NBA fans are eager to see how Doncic and Davis settle into their new teams.
