Anthony Davis Traded to Mavericks in Blockbuster Deal for Luka Dončić

DALLAS — The Dallas Mavericks made a seismic move Saturday, acquiring All-NBA forward-center Anthony Davis from the Los Angeles Lakers in exchange for All-NBA guard Luka Dončić. The blockbuster trade reshapes the Western Conference playoff race and bolsters the Mavericks’ roster with a proven superstar.

Davis, a 10-time All-Star and five-time All-NBA selection, joins a Mavericks team already featuring Kyrie Irving and Klay Thompson. The 31-year-old big man, who turns 32 next month, brings championship experience, having led the Lakers to an NBA title in the 2020 bubble. This season, Davis is averaging 25.7 points and 11.9 rebounds per game.

Dončić, 25, leaves Dallas after establishing himself as one of the league’s brightest stars. The Slovenian guard is averaging 28.1 points, 8.3 rebounds, and 7.8 assists this season. Both players are currently sidelined with injuries, and no timetable has been announced for their returns to the court.

The trade marks a new chapter for Davis, who spent six-plus seasons with the Lakers. He was named to the NBA’s 75th Anniversary Team in 2021 and has been a dominant force on both ends of the floor throughout his career. Mavericks head coach Jason Kidd now faces the challenge of integrating Davis into a lineup that already boasts significant firepower.

For the Lakers, acquiring Dončić signals a shift toward building around younger talent. The move comes as the team looks to rebound from a disappointing stretch following their 2020 championship run.

Neither team has disclosed additional details about the trade, including potential draft picks or other players involved. The deal is expected to be finalized pending league approval.