NBA world, Lakers fans react to shocking Anthony Davis-Luka Doncic trade

After winning two Olympic gold medals and an NBA championship together, gone are the days of Anthony Davis and LeBron James, who were considered one of the best duos in the NBA for nearly six seasons. 

Late Saturday night, the Los Angeles Lakers and Dallas Mavericks shocked the sports world by making one of the most stunning trades in league history in a move that sent Davis to the Lone Star State for Luka Dončić. 

Fans and players were stunned.

(Getty Images)

"I was surprised when it happened. I hate to see Anthony Davis go, especially [Max] Christie, we’ll really miss him because he was really helping us out on the defense," a fan told FOX 11 outside Randy’s Donuts on Monday morning. "I don’t know what the Lakers are going to do for a big man, but I’m happy for Luka. He’s a good player and I guess the Lakers are looking toward the future also because LeBron’s not going to be around too much longer." 

"Everybody was shocked, but what a deal. We got a great deal. Thank you, Texas," another fan added. 

PREVIOUS COVERAGE: Lakers send Anthony Davis to Dallas for Luka Doncic in shocking trade

It was a move that was so shocking, ESPN’s Shams Charania, who was first to report the trade, clarified twice on social media that it was real. 

The trade comes after Davis was vocal about wanting to play the power forward position in recent interviews. Now, his wish will be granted on a new team. 

Under head coach Jason Kidd, Davis joins fellow All-Stars Kyrie Irving and Klay Thompson on a team that’s under a "win now" mentality. 

Meanwhile, the Lakers gained an international superstar as they look to the future with LeBron James' looming retirement.

PREVIOUS COVERAGE: LeBron James, 39, acknowledges NBA career is nearing its end: ‘I don’t have much time left’

Also worth noting is that Doncic will be coached by his former teammate, JJ Redick. 

(Getty Images)

Luka Dončić reacts

Luka Dončić took to social media to address his fans in Dallas as well as his mindset going into his new chapter. 

"Dallas is a special place, and Mavs fans are special fans," the 25-year-old said in a heartfelt tribute. 

"Grateful for this amazing opportunity. Basketball means everything to me, and no matter where I play the game, I’ll do so with the same joy, passion and goal - to win championships," he said in his next post. 

Anthony Davis breaks his silence

Anthony Davis(Photo by Meg Oliphant/Getty Images)

Anthony Davis broke his silence on Monday evening on Instagram and wrote a heartfelt post about his time as a Laker. 

"6 years ago, I came here with the vision to win a Championship, and I will never forget the moment we did! The business of basketball is a business just like all other businesses… I am grateful to the city where my first ring came from, grew my family and friendships and I will always have a home here," the big man wrote. "My family and I thank everyone who made this place home and we are still thinking of those that lost their homes in the fires. To my teammates: our friendships go beyond a locker room and a jersey…LA will always have a special place in my heart. Every great story has an exciting next chapter… Dallas- Here we come!"

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LeBron James, NBA World reacts

ESPN reported LeBron James was having with his family when he was informed of the trade. 

Gold medalists LeBron James and Anthony Davis of Team United States. (Photo by Jamie Squire/Getty Images)

While some reported that James had grown frustrated with Davis, James quickly slammed those rumors, writing "You a f-n lie!!!"

He also shared a photo of the duo on his Instagram stories and wrote, "Love you my dog!! Go crazy over there!"

(Instagram: kingjames)

The blockbuster trade also sent shock waves across the league. See some reactions below. 

Dirk Nowitzki

The Hall of Famer and Mavericks legend had no words.

Dwyane Wade

Trae Young

Giannis Antetokounmpo

Tyrese Maxey

Joel Embiid

Josh Hart

De'Aaron Fox

De'Aaron Fox reacted to the news and the following day, he was traded to the San Antonio Spurs.

CJ McCollum

Malik Monk

Charles Barkley

"I think the most shocking thing about this trade is a couple things. Number one, you never trade stars for stars," the NBA legend said on NBA TV. "I’ve been in the NBA for 40 years. Normally when you trade a star, you get a bunch of junk back. This is the first time I can remember where you got two All-NBA players traded for each other." 

He continued to say, "And the second thing is, normally when stars get traded you hear a lot of rumblings, and you just put them up for the highest bidder. So I think those are the first two aspects of this trade that are shocking."

More on the three-team trade

  • The Lakers acquired Luka Dončić, Maxi Klever and Markieff Morris.
  • The Mavericks get Anthony Davis, Max Christine, and a 2029 first-round draft pick.
  • The Jazz acquired Jalen Hood-Schifino, a 2025 Clippers second-round pick and a 2025 Mavericks second-round pick .

Luka arrives in LA

On Sunday night, the Lakers shared pictures of Doncic arriving in LA.

"Can’t spell Luka without LA," the Lakers wrote with their new star throwing up the LA sign.

It’s reported he’ll make his Lakers debut within the next month. 

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