The NBA world was stunned by the recent trade that saw Luka Doncic leave the Dallas Mavericks for the Los Angeles Lakers. The blockbuster deal, which also involved Anthony Davis and other key players, has left even Mavericks minority owner Mark Cuban perplexed.
On a recent episode of FanDuel TV’s Run It Back, co-hosts Michelle Beadle, Chandler Parsons, and Lou Williams discussed the surprising trade. Beadle asked, “I gotta wonder what Mark Cuban thinks of all this,” to which Parsons, a former Maverick, shared a revealing text exchange with Cuban. “I texted him and I said, ‘I’m so confused,’” Parsons recalled. Cuban’s response? “That makes two of us.”
In addition to his own surprise, Parsons also shed light on the changing landscape in Dallas. He noted that Cuban, who sold a 73% stake in the Mavericks back in December 2023, is no longer as involved in the team’s decision-making. According to Parsons, the new majority owners “know nothing about the NBA and basketball,” further complicating the situation for those closely following the trade.
The trade shook the NBA to its core. The Lakers acquired Doncic, Maxi Kleber, and Markieff Morris, while the Mavericks received Davis, Max Christie, and a 2029 first-round pick. The Utah Jazz also played a role, acquiring Jalen Hood-Schifino and two second-round picks.
The Mavericks initiated the offer to Los Angeles, and after internal discussions, the Lakers made the decision to acquire Doncic as their long-term cornerstone. The trade is now finalized, with the Mavericks hoping that the addition of Davis will bolster their chances of a deep playoff run.
Doncic, who is currently sidelined with a calf injury, has been one of the league’s top performers this season. Averaging 28.1 points, 8.3 rebounds, and 7.8 assists, Doncic’s offensive firepower is seen as the perfect match for the Lakers, who are betting on his playmaking ability to lead the team for years to come.
Meanwhile, Davis is making an impact in Dallas, where he’s averaging 25.7 points, 11.9 rebounds, and 3.4 assists. The Mavericks view the trade as a move to strengthen their roster and push for immediate playoff success.
As the Lakers sit at 28-19, ranking fifth in the Western Conference, and the Mavericks are 26-24, in ninth place, this trade is expected to significantly impact the playoff picture. The Lakers, with Doncic and LeBron James, now have one of the most dynamic duos in the league, while Dallas strengthens its defense with Davis alongside Kyrie Irving.
The trade is also noteworthy for its implications on the future. The Lakers are now tasked with managing Doncic’s health and keeping him happy in Los Angeles. Meanwhile, Dallas hopes that Davis’ defensive skills will mesh well with their high-powered offense, moving them closer to championship contention.
The Utah Jazz, acting as trade facilitators, added to their growing collection of young assets. They secured Hood-Schifino and two second-round picks, further cementing their long-term strategy.
This trade has reshaped the Western Conference, creating intriguing storylines as both teams adjust to their new rosters. Fans are closely watching how Luka Doncic and Anthony Davis perform in their new homes, with both franchises now in pursuit of a championship.
