The Dallas Mavericks’ decision to trade Luka Doncic has been widely criticized around the league. Many NBA insiders believe the move will go down as one of the worst trades in franchise history.
Sam Amick of The Athletic reported that multiple league executives, scouts, and coaches were stunned by the deal. While some within the Mavericks organization raised concerns about Doncic’s professionalism, many around the league see Dallas’ decision as a massive mistake.
Dallas sent Doncic, Maxi Kleber, and Markieff Morris to the Los Angeles Lakers in exchange for Anthony Davis, Max Christie, and a 2029 first-round pick. The deal, finalized on February 2, marked the first time two reigning All-NBA players were traded for each other midseason.
Mavericks general manager Nico Harrison defended the trade, emphasizing a shift toward defense. However, critics argue that trading a 25-year-old superstar in his prime for a 32-year-old Davis—who has a history of injuries—was a major gamble.
Davis suffered an adductor strain in his first game with Dallas and has not played since February 8. The Mavericks have gone 5-5 in their last 10 games, slipping to ninth place in the Western Conference.
Meanwhile, Doncic has played five games with the Lakers, averaging 19 points, 9 rebounds, and 7 assists in 29.2 minutes per game. The Lakers have won three of those five games, improving to 35-21 and sitting fifth in the West.
Before the trade, Doncic was averaging 28.1 points, 8.3 rebounds, and 7.8 assists in 35.7 minutes per game. His numbers have slightly dipped, but his impact on the Lakers has been immediate.
Despite internal concerns about Doncic’s work ethic and lifestyle, league executives believe Dallas mishandled the situation. One source told The Athletic, “You manage,” referencing how other teams have built around talented yet flawed superstars.
The Lakers, led by Rob Pelinka, believe Doncic’s best years are ahead of him. Their confidence is based partly on Phil Jackson’s philosophy that players mature in their late 20s.
Since joining the Lakers, Doncic recorded his first triple-double with 19 points, 15 rebounds, and 12 assists in a win against Dallas on February 25. The moment underscored what the Mavericks lost by trading their franchise cornerstone.
Dallas faces uncertainty with Davis sidelined, while the Lakers are surging with Doncic now paired alongside LeBron James. If the trade backfires, it could haunt the Mavericks for years to come.
