February hit the NBA community like a thunderclap, dropping jaws with a trade that changed everything. Blockbuster trades are nothing new, but this one? It was different. The leading faces of two Western powerhouses swapped places — something no one saw coming. By now, you’ve probably guessed that we are talking about the Anthony Davis-Luka Doncic trade. Even two months later, it’s still the talk of the league. Unbelievable. Unforgettable. The Mavericks were hit hardest by the trade, with their fans left heartbroken and furious. But LeBron James’ recent confession could bring some much-needed relief to GM Nico Harrison and the fans as well.
After being in the league for so long, LeBron James is well aware of the harsh business side of things. So, when he gives thumbs up to the trade, recognizing the incredible caliber of players on both sides, you know it’s a solid move. When the topic came up on Mind The Game podcast, LeBron said, LeBron said, “I think it works, it works for both franchises, man.” The 40-year-old went on to explain, “It’s still, it’s going to be a process for Dallas. It’s definitely going to be a process for us, but for us to be able to get Luka, and I know the caliber of player and person that Dallas is getting in AD, so I’m excited for him as well.”
Following the trade, Luka Doncic was welcomed with open arms by LA fans, but Davis didn’t receive the same warm reception. After all, the Slovenian had been the face of the Mavericks, their franchise player, and trading him without prior notice only upset Dallas fans. Many even held up signs calling for the dismissal of Nico Harrison. While Luka quickly settled in with the Lakers, the Mavs had to bench Davis on his debut night because of his adductor strain. But now he’s back, and surprisingly, the team looks in much better shape despite their injury-riddled roster.
Feb 19, 2025; Los Angeles, California, USA; Los Angeles Lakers forward LeBron James (23) and guard Luka Doncic (77) during the second quarter against the Charlotte Hornets at Crypto.com Arena. Mandatory Credit: Jason Parkhurst-Imagn Images
As LeBron said, both teams are in transition, and it’ll take time to adjust. But the 4x champion remains optimistic about the results. He believes the trade benefits both franchises. He’s consistently praised Luka’s impact on the team, and when it comes to AD, well, they share a special bond. He knows exactly what AD brings to the table and is genuinely excited about what both players can do. And it wasn’t just LeBron who believed it was a fair trade, the Lakers’ President was on the same page.
Jeanie Buss and LeBron James share same view on Anthony Davis-Luka Doncic trade
During her appearance on the Games with Names show, when Jeanie Buss was asked about the Luka Doncic trade and how it was a huge deal for the Lakers, she immediately highlighted what they had to give up for the deal. “Look what we had to give up, though. I mean, Anthony Davis—we won a championship. Do you know how hard that was?” Buss asked the host.
She then opened up, admitting that when it comes to trades, she follows her father’s principles of fairness in business dealings. As Jeanie explained, Dr. Jerry Buss always believed, “If a deal isn’t good for both sides, then it’s not a good deal.” That’s exactly how Jeanie views the Anthony Davis trade.
She further confessed that trading Davis was not even on the cards. “We were not looking to trade Anthony Davis,” Jeanie said. But things took a sharp turn when the Mavericks made their demand for the veteran. “Dallas contacted us, and he’d been making it clear that he wasn’t happy, that he was having to play the five. He wanted to play the four, so it sounded like he was unhappy.” Since AD wasn’t happy playing as a center and had been quite vocal about it, the decision seemed inevitable. “I mean, it was a deal that both sides wanted to make.”
That move definitely worked out for the Lakers. Now, the real question is whether the Mavericks can find similar success in the long run. After trading away Luka, there’s definitely a void to fill. With time, perhaps the Mavs will adjust and build a strong team around AD. At least LeBron James is optimistic about it. What do you think? Will LeBron’s optimism pay off, or will Mavs fans continue to feel Luka Doncic’s absence? Let us know in the comments below!
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