One of the wildest aspects of the trade between the Los Angeles Lakers and Dallas Mavericks involving Luka Doncic and Anthony Davis is that practically no one was aware the trade was happening. Both the Lakers and Mavericks wanted to prevent any leaks, and even Utah Jazz executive Danny Ainge, the third party necessary for the trade, was unaware of the details until the very end.
LeBron James has stated that he was unaware, as did his agent Rich Paul and Davis’ agent, with all parties insisting that only those who needed to know were informed. However, Davis isn’t entirely convinced that’s true.
In a conversation with Broderick Turner from the L.A. Times, Davis shared the feelings he experienced upon hearing about the trade, further stating that he thinks it’s unlikely that no one anticipated the trade was imminent.
“When it occurred, I truly didn’t know anything,” Davis remembered while being in the hallways of Crypto.com Arena after the Lakers’ 107-99 victory. “He’s been my partner for six years … so my first instinct was to contact him. … Clearly, I understand that there will be numerous political matters in the front office when they communicate with me.”
“The front office must take the necessary actions, and clearly, they will prioritize what is best for the organization.” I’m not sure if I ever understood the ‘truth’ about any of it. I’m unsure about what is true and what isn’t, coming from above. My plan is to approach my counterpart, whom I’ve been collaborating with, to find out what’s happening and gather his response; that’s all it was. We engaged in a dialogue. That was all.
“Everyone claims that no one was aware and all this other stuff.” I simply don’t buy it. However, listen dude, I’ve moved on from that. I’m prepared to advance with Dallas and aim for a championship alongside these players. Firstly, return to the floor and prepare to compete. All the feelings, that s— endured that evening when it was merely a surprise.”
Although he did not specify exactly who he believes might have been aware, Davis shares these thoughts with others. However, in a time when nearly every news piece is leaked in advance, the ability of the Lakers and Mavericks to maintain this secrecy is still remarkable. Nonetheless, Davis maintains that he is advancing with his new team and is concentrating on establishing his family in Dallas.
“They desired the ones they desired.” “They acted as needed,” Davis remarked. “I’m not sure if it was necessary, but that was their choice.” I have progressed. I have a spouse and children to be concerned about, you understand what I mean? I’m working on how to transport them to Dallas and adapt to that.
“It’s finished, and I’m looking ahead with my new team and the plans we have.”
Similar to Doncic, Davis faces challenges beyond just basketball; he must also handle the logistics of relocating his family and establishing a new life in an unfamiliar city. This is a highly stressful period, further complicated by the pressures of the NBA season.
It won’t be clear who was aware of the Doncic-Davis trade for a while, but the Lakers and Mavericks are now looking ahead with a refreshed perspective on their future.
Lakers’ LeBron James pleased to witness Anthony Davis getting appreciation upon returning to L.A.
Although he didn’t play because of an injury, Anthony Davis made his initial return to L.A. since the trade as the Lakers won against the Mavericks. The Lakers created a stunning tribute video for Davis, featuring LeBron James appreciating all the well-deserved love and acknowledgment Davis received.
“I surely witnessed it.” “I viewed it from beginning to end,” LeBron stated regarding the Davis tribute video. “We understand the impact AD had on this franchise and what he contributed from the time we acquired him to lifting the Larry O’Brien trophy, earning All-Star selections, winning the first-ever In-Season Tournament, and many, many impressive performances.” Not just in this structure but also on the street too. Clearly, our friendship is understood. He is among my closest friends, and it was wonderful to witness him receive that acknowledgment and experience that moment.