On February 2nd, 2025, the Dallas Mavericks, Los Angeles Lakers, and Utah Jazz made a three-way trade. The Mavericks traded superstar point guard Luka Doncic, forward/center Maxi Kleber, and forward Markieff Morris to LA. The Los Angeles Lakers traded star forward/center Anthony Davis, guard Max Christie, and a 2029 first-round pick to Dallas. Utah Jazz also got Jalen Hood from LA and two second-round picks.
Dallas’ primary reason for trading Luka Doncic was his poor defensive skills. With Anthony Davis, the Mavericks defense won’t struggle anymore. Davis led the Lakers last year in rebounds and blocks. He was also second in steals and points. Playing alongside Dallas point guard Kyrie Irving will do well for the Mavericks.
The downside of Dallas’s trade is receiving add-ons, Maxi Kleber and Markieff Morris. Kleber didn’t have great stats last year nor did Markieff. Neither player adds much value to the Mavericks. Also, Davis is approaching his mid-thirties. How much longer can he be expected to keep up his current momentum?
Last year, the Lakers ranked 12th in scoring and needed a point guard. Doncic led the Mavericks in points, rebounds, assists, and steals this year. He is the offensive weapon the Los Angeles Lakers have been looking for.
Losing Davis will harm the Lakers though. The Lakers ranked 12th in defense last year and 8th this year. This was primarily because of Davis. The Lakers will suffer for replacing their defense superstar with a mediocre defensive player.
The Utah Jazz needed both help in both offense and defense. They are currently ranked 29th in scoring and defense. From their trade, Utah received a young guard, Jalen Hood, and two second-round picks to choose new players. The Jazz didn’t get the same instant benefits from their trade as the Mavericks and Lakers. Regardless, they could get a good defense with their draft picks.
Overall, the Mavericks did lose their star player but it was for the good. The Lakers received an offensive weapon with Luka currently 25 and in his prime years. The Jazz have a hopeful future as long as they draft the right players and with a new guard.
