How the Luka Dončić-Anthony Davis Trade Will Change the Future of the NBA
In one of the most shocking moves in NBA History, the Dallas Mavericks and Los Angeles Lakers completed a trade that has set headlines for weeks:
The Mavericks traded away Superstar PG Luka Dončić, PF Maxi Kleber, and SF Markieff Morris to the Lakers for PF Anthony Davis, SG Max Christie, and a 2029 first-round pick. The Jazz were included as a third team in the trade to equal out the financial and personnel aspects of the trade. They received PG Jalen Hood-Schifino (Lakers) and two 2025 second-round picks from both the Lakers and Mavericks.
This trade included two of the biggest names in the NBA and quickly became the biggest ever due to the magnitude of the trade. The Mavericks' decision to trade away Luka stemmed from concern surrounding his physical appearance. Mavericks GM Nico Harrison received lots of heat for the decision, but he voiced his concerns that Luka was overweight, and they did not want to commit to a long-term future with someone who could physically be deteriorating. Luka is listed at 230 lbs, but many reports speculate that he may have gained over 50 lbs since being drafted by Dallas. This move was "approved" by Dallas' ownership, which no longer includes Mark Cuban, and they are also receiving lots of heat from fans. The Mavericks GM didn't want to pay Luka the supermax contract for 5 years, which is worth $345M. Since he was traded, this is no longer a choice for Luka, and he'll have to settle for a 4 year, $229 contract when the free agency option arrives for him in 2026. It is very odd to see a team trade their franchise player, especially after leading them to the NBA Finals the season prior, but the Mavericks believed that was the farthest Luka could take them. They strongly believe the acquisition of Anthony Davis is best for the team. However, if the deterioration of health was a concern for Dallas, why trade for Davis? Since trading for Davis, he's already suffered an injury that will sideline him for a substantial amount of time. This injury came after two games where Davis looked incredible, but it has now led to an injury. I wouldn't be surprised if, in five years, Max Cristie is considered as the big return for Dallas.
In Los Angeles, fans celebrate Luka's acquisition as it shows what the Lakers have planned for the post-LeBron James future. This move also gives LeBron the best chance at a 5th championship. The Anthony Davis Era in LA resulted in a 2020 Championship win, but nothing of much substance outside of that. Davis refused to play center, which did not positively affect the team. He will be remembered for his time in LA, but time was up, especially after his mismatch with Nikola Jokic. The injuries plagued him, and the pairing peaked years ago. Luka brings new hope to the team; his scoring and playmaking are things LeBron hasn't been paired with since playing with Kyrie Irving or Dwyane Wade. The obvious worry is: who is the center? However, it was a substantial move for Los Angeles.
This trade puts every superstar on notice. It could create a trend that leads to front offices dictating the behavior of the superstar. We've seen a disgruntled star forcing his way out or demanding a big-money contract each year. The players have had absolute power, but this trade and the new CBA could lead to a complete 180. Due to the draft pick trading limitations and other factors, the CBA already negates trades, such as the magnitude of the James Harden (Nets) or Kevin Durant (Suns) trade. Players that abuse injury "load management" like Paul George and Joel Embiid, have weight issues like Zion Williamson, or have behavioral problems off-the-court like Ja Morant will now be put on watch. The players I just listed returned to action shortly after the Luka trade. Players are taking notice of this trade. It was recently reported by "The Ringer's" Howard Beck that the Grizzles could move on from Ja Morant this offseason. His play has taken a toll since his suspension for displaying a weapon on social media. The landscape of the NBA is changing, and the sport desperately needs it. The sport is at an all-time low and has become hard to watch due to how the game is played. Moves like these could help revive the sport, and the player's love for the sport because it seems like that is what's missing.
