Anthony Davis’ Agent Rich Paul Breaks Silence on Mavericks-Lakers Trade for Luka Doncic
Even one of the most influential agents in NBA history was caught off guard by the recent trade.
In this story:
Nico Harrison pulled off a trade that shocked the NBA world, sending Dallas Mavericks star Luka Dončić to the Los Angeles Lakers in exchange for Anthony Davis and Max Christie. The deal left everyone stunned, with many calling it one of the most surprising trades in NBA history.
According to Harrison, the trade was kept secret until the last moment, known only to him, Mavericks’ Governor Patrick Dumont, Lakers GM Rob Pelinka, and Lakers Governor Jeanie Buss. Jason Kidd, Doncic, and Davis were unaware, and even Rich Paul, the CEO of Klutch Sports Group and one of the NBA’s most well-connected agents, said he had no knowledge of it.
Paul gave an exclusive interview to Kevin Gray Jr. of DLLS Network, where he shared his surprise at the trade itself, though he wasn’t shocked by Davis’ destination.
“This one was definitely surprising,” Paul said. “The timing, the people involved, that was a shock. The destination? Not so much, considering the relationship. AD has been someone Nico has wanted since he took the job, so that part wasn’t a surprise. But it’s up there, for sure. This trade involved All-NBA players, which is rare. Typically, All-NBA trades involve younger players or a bundle of draft picks, not two major players like this. Of course, AD is 31, and Luka’s only 25, which explains some of the reasoning.”
Paul and Davis have a long history, with Davis knowing Harrison since his high school days. As a Nike athlete attending the University of Kentucky, Davis’ relationship with Harrison, a former Nike executive, spans over a decade.
If Rich Paul was caught off guard by the trade, it shows how surprising it was. Paul has represented top stars like LeBron James, Draymond Green, Brandon Ingram, and many others. While the trade may not make complete sense from a roster-building perspective, Nico Harrison secured the player he wanted.
Mavericks’ Trade Deadline Recap
Mavericks Receive: Anthony Davis, Max Christie, Caleb Martin, 2029 Lakers First-Round Pick, 2030 Second-Round Pick (team unclear)
Lakers Receive: Luka Dončić, Maxi Kleber, Markieff Morris
Utah Jazz Receive: Jalen Hood-Schifino, 2025 Mavericks Second-Round Pick, 2025 Clippers Second-Round Pick