It’s still crazy to think about but yes, Luka Doncic is a Los Angeles Laker.
He was dealt to the Lakers over the Lakers in a move that nobody saw coming. Heck, a lot of fans and players thought the trade was fake after ESPN’s Shams Charania tweeted it out.
In addition to Doncic, the Lakers acquired Maxi Kleber and Markieff Morris from the Mavericks. The Mavericks also acquired Anthony Davis, a 2029 first-round pick, and Max Christie. It was a super light return for one of the five best players in the NBA.
The Utah Jazz were the third team to participate in the trade, acquiring Jalen Hood-Schifino and two second-round picks.
Although Doncic has yet to make his Lakers debut, according to Marc Stein, he’s targeting this Monday’s Lakers-Jazz game.
Luka Dončić is targeting Monday against Utah for his Lakers debut, @TheSteinLine has learned.
He returned to 5-on-5 play in practice this week and is said to be progressing well in his ramp up from his left calf strain on Christmas.
More NBA from me: https://t.co/IIIlAloJCf pic.twitter.com/6yLu7Q1dKz
— Marc Stein (@TheSteinLine) February 6, 2025
Doncic sets the Lakers up for the present and the future. They’re all in to try and win one more title while LeBron James is with them but even after he retires, the Lakers will still be contending with Doncic leading the way.
Doncic is one of the best players in the NBA and is having a tremendous season, averaging 28 points, 8.3 rebounds, and 7.8 assists per game. He’s been limited to only 22 games due to an injury but he’s been dynamite on the floor when healthy.
Doncic helped the Mavericks reach the 2024 NBA Finals before they lost to the Boston Celtics. He was magnificent during that run and was set to come back soon to try and help the Mavericks secure a playoff spot before he got dealt.
The Mavericks are 26-25 through 51 games, good for eighth in the West. The Lakers are firmly in a playoff spot with a 29-19 record, good for fifth in the conference.
It’s going to be quite the spectacle when Doncic rocks the Lakers’ colors for the first time during a game.
Related: Breaking: Luka Doncic Traded To Lakers, Anthony Davis To Mavericks In Blockbuster Deal