Anthony Davis has broken his silence on the blockbuster trade that sent him from the Los Angeles Lakers to the Dallas Mavericks. Speaking to reporters, the star forward admitted he was caught off guard when he got the call.
“I was shocked. I didn’t know. I was actually at home, about to watch a movie with my wife and got the phone call. I had no idea… Now I’m kind of over it and just getting ready to play with Dallas,” Davis said, per Mike Curtis.
The deal, which sent shockwaves through the NBA, saw the Lakers acquire Luka Doncic, Maxi Kleber, and Markieff Morris. In return, the Mavericks landed Davis, Max Christie, and a 2029 first-round pick. The Utah Jazz also played a role, receiving Jalen Hood-Schifino and two second-round picks.
Davis expressed excitement about teaming up with Kyrie Irving, revealing that the two had discussed playing together years ago. “Me and Kai talked about this I think in 2018 when I asked for a trade from New Orleans. We’ve been wanting to play alongside each other for a very long time. Now we got that opportunity,” Davis said, per Eddie Sefko.
The Mavericks, sitting at 26-25 and 11th in the Western Conference, hope Davis can help them climb the standings. The 10-time All-Star is averaging 25.7 points, 11.9 rebounds, and 3.4 assists this season while anchoring the defense.
Meanwhile, the Lakers, currently 29-19 and in fifth place, are betting on Doncic’s playmaking and scoring to carry them forward. Doncic, sidelined with a calf injury, is averaging 28.1 points, 8.3 rebounds, and 7.8 assists.
LeBron James, at 40 years old, continues to thrive, averaging 24 points, 7.6 rebounds, and 9.1 assists. His partnership with Doncic is expected to be one of the most closely watched storylines for the rest of the season.
For the Mavericks, the focus is on integrating Davis and maximizing his chemistry with Irving. With Dallas fighting for a playoff spot, Davis’ arrival could make an immediate impact.
As the Western Conference playoff race tightens, both teams will be adjusting to their new lineups. The Lakers and Mavericks made bold moves, and their success will depend on how quickly their stars can adapt.
Davis has embraced the challenge, and all eyes will be on how he performs in his new role. With a motivated Davis leading the way, Dallas hopes to turn its season around.
