Anthony Davis is skeptical about claims that no one knew in advance about the blockbuster trade that sent Luka Doncic to the Los Angeles Lakers.
“Everybody’s saying nobody knew and all this other s**t. I just don’t believe it,” Davis told Broderick Turner of the Los Angeles Times.
The trade, finalized on February 2, sent Doncic, along with Maxi Kleber and Markieff Morris, to the Lakers. In return, Los Angeles traded Davis, Max Christie, and a 2029 first-round pick to the Dallas Mavericks.
Jalen Hood-Schifino and a 2025 second-round pick were also sent to the Utah Jazz, who received another second-rounder from Dallas.
The deal was one of the most shocking in NBA history, marking the first time two reigning All-NBA players were exchanged midseason.
The Mavericks’ decision to part with their franchise star sparked widespread criticism. Dallas general manager Nico Harrison defended the move, saying, “I believe that defense wins championships.”
Doncic, however, was blindsided and wasn’t informed of the trade until after it was completed. Davis also found out only after the deal was done, but he remains unconvinced that it was truly kept under wraps.
The Lakers’ front office, led by Rob Pelinka, reportedly operated in secrecy to execute the trade. Harrison maintained that even Mavericks personnel were unaware of the discussions leading up to the deal.
Doncic’s sudden departure stunned Dallas fans, many of whom believed he was the franchise’s long-term cornerstone.
With Davis in Dallas, the Mavericks prioritized defensive stability over their previous offensive-heavy approach.
Meanwhile, Los Angeles paired Doncic with LeBron James, forming one of the most dynamic duos in the league.
