The Dallas Mavericks were in desperate need of defense, while the Los Angeles Lakers sought to bolster their perimeter offense. Instead of making minor moves, the two teams stunned the NBA by orchestrating a massive three-team trade involving the Utah Jazz. The deal sends 10-time All-Star Anthony Davis to the Mavericks and five-time All-NBA guard Luka Doncic to the Lakers.
The Lakers will also receive Maxi Kleber and Markieff Morris from Dallas, along with Max Christie and a first-round pick. The Jazz, acting as facilitators, acquire Jalen Hood-Schifino and two second-round picks (one from the Lakers and one from the Mavericks).
This seismic trade comes just ahead of the NBA trade deadline as both the Lakers and Mavericks aim to strengthen their rosters for a deep playoff push. The Mavericks, who fell to the Boston Celtics in last season’s Finals, and the Lakers, who were eliminated early by the Denver Nuggets, are clearly in win-now mode.
Grading the Trade: Who Came Out on Top?
Mavericks Trade Grade: B-
Trading a 25-year-old superstar like Luka Doncic, who is already a five-time All-NBA selection and led the Mavericks to the Finals last season, is a bold and risky move. Doncic is one of the league’s most gifted offensive players, averaging nearly 30 points per game and flirting with triple-doubles nightly. However, concerns about his defense and his potential free agency in 2026 may have influenced the Mavericks’ decision.
In return, Dallas acquires Anthony Davis, one of the NBA’s premier two-way big men. Davis brings elite scoring, rebounding, shot-blocking, and perimeter defense. While this trade improves the Mavericks defensively and adds a dominant low-post scorer, it remains to be seen if it elevates them from a playoff team to a true title contender.
Lakers Trade Grade: A-
The Lakers made a franchise-altering move by acquiring Luka Doncic, pairing him with LeBron James to create one of the most dynamic offensive duos in the league. While losing Anthony Davis weakens their defense, Doncic’s offensive brilliance and playmaking ability could more than compensate.
Doncic, who is expected to return from a calf injury soon, gives the Lakers the perimeter firepower they’ve been missing. His partnership with James could propel the Lakers into title contention, especially if they address their defensive issues. This trade not only benefits the Lakers in the short term but also secures a cornerstone player for the post-LeBron era.
Jazz Trade Grade: B
The Utah Jazz played a minor role in this blockbuster deal, primarily acting as a facilitator. By acquiring Jalen Hood-Schifino and two second-round picks, the Jazz positioned themselves to make future moves, either at the trade deadline or in the offseason. While their involvement was minimal, the additional assets could prove valuable down the line.
Conclusion: A Win-Win for Both Teams?
This trade is a high-stakes gamble for both the Lakers and Mavericks. Dallas gains a defensive anchor in Anthony Davis, while Los Angeles secures a generational talent in Luka Doncic. Only time will tell which team truly won this deal, but one thing is certain: the NBA landscape just got a lot more interesting.