Layout by: Cianyah Mendoza
Published by: Michelle Piquero
Date Published: April 15, 2025
Time Published: 5:28 PM
The Los Angeles Lakers just made the boldest move of the decade. Trading Anthony Davis for Luka Dončić. While the NBA fans argue, one thing is for certain: the Lakers didn’t just trade a star, they secured their future.
While many fans may call the trade a blockbuster, the numbers and impact point to a clear winner—the Lakers.
After acquiring Luka, the Lakers won 12 of 14 games elevating themselves behind the Oklahoma City Thunder. In contrast, the Mavericks faced challenges losing 14 games and having sidelined the player they received in the trade. Davis has only played 6 games for the Mavericks this season.
The Lakers improved significantly after acquiring Luka, while the Mavericks suffered after Davis was sidelined due to injury in his debut for the team.
Luka averaged 27.6 points, 7.8 assists and 8.3 rebounds per game—only behind by a few from a triple double. He’s already a five-time All-NBA First Team member and the second most efficient player of the NBA at only 26 years old.
These are not just outstanding numbers, they’re historic. His numbers prove how he is worthy of leading a team, his offensive prowess is unmatched. Luka is doing things that other players dream of.
On the other hand, Anthony Davis has missed over 30% of games in the past four seasons due to injuries. Even in his healthiest year, he played just 56 games. His debut game for the Mavericks has also led to another injury causing him to miss 18 games.
Though Davis is a powerhouse when available, the Lakers need someone consistent—and Luka brings it to the table.
The trade isn’t just about numbers, it’s also about the team’s future. LeBron James’ looming retirement has been a problem for the Lakers, to which Luka seems to be the perfect replacement. An offensively gifted, marketable team leader, checking all the boxes for the Lakers.
The Lakers made the right call in the trade, transforming injury risk into long term greatness. Choosing a player who can win and dominate. The Lakers’ future is brighter than ever with Luka in the Picture. The only question remains: Can they build a championship team around him?
REFERENCES:
[1] Pittman, E. (2025, April 5). Luka Dončić leads Lakers to win over former Mavericks team weeks after blockbuster trade. Hatter’s Herald. https://hattersherald.com/17119/sports/luka-doncic-leads-lakers-to-win-over-former-mavericks-team-weeks-after-blockbuster-trade/
[2] Field Level Media. (2025, April 5). Clippers blow out Mavericks, jockey for playoff berth. Reuters. https://www.reuters.com/sports/basketball/clippers-blow-out-mavericks-jockey-playoff-berth-2025-04-05/
[3] Brener, J. (2025, April 5). Dallas Mavericks: Luka Dončić trade with Lakers ripple effect. Sports Illustrated. https://www.si.com/nba/mavericks/news/dallas-mavericks-luka-doncic-trade-lakers-ripple-effect
[4] ESPN. (n.d.). Luka Dončić. ESPN. https://www.espn.ph/nba/player/_/id/3945274/luka-doncic
[5] ESPN. (n.d.). Anthony Davis game log. ESPN. https://www.espn.ph/nba/player/gamelog/_/id/6583/anthony-davis
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