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Dallas Mavericks
Los Angeles Lakers
Sep 12, 2025 10:46 AM EDT
The NBA world was turned upside down in early February when the Dallas Mavericks traded star point guard Luka Doncic to the Los Angeles Lakers in exchange for Anthony Davis, Max Christie, and draft compensation.
At first, many fans and analysts couldn’t believe it—some even thought ESPN’s Shams Charania had been hacked when he broke the news on social media.
But it quickly became reality. While Doncic impressed during the back half of the season with Los Angeles, he has made getting into better shape a priority this offseason. If his recent EuroBasket 2025 performances for Slovenia are any indication, Doncic could be poised for a career year when the season tips off in October.
The trade was primarily orchestrated by general manager Nico Harrison. And while owner Mark Cuban admitted he was frustrated to part ways with Doncic—and still has love for him—he made it clear that his feelings about the Lakers organization are very different.
“I want the Lakers to go 0-82,” Cuban said.
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Fans reacted to Cuban’s jab at the Lakers:
“Bro really hates Lakers more than he loves Luka,” a fan said.
Someone else added, “Me too, Mark.”
Another person wrote, “Leftover hatred from when Kobe Bryant embarrassed Mark Cuban in victory so many times.”
“I love that he hopes that,” one more fan commented.
Former Dallas Mavericks owner Mark Cuban
Former Dallas Mavericks owner Mark Cuban
© Kevin Jairaj-USA TODAY Sports — Source: © Kevin Jairaj-USA TODAY Sports
Luka Doncic spent seven years with the Mavericks and helped lead them to the 2023 NBA Finals before being traded prior to the deadline, while still rehabbing an injury he sustained on Christmas Day.
During his time with Los Angeles last season, the 26-year-old averaged 28.2 points, 8.1 rebounds, and 7.5 assists across 28 games. Despite his strong performance, the Lakers were eliminated early in the first round of the playoffs by the Minnesota Timberwolves.
The Lakers will face the Mavericks twice in the coming weeks, meeting first in the preseason on Oct. 15 and then in the regular season on Nov. 28.
About the author
Trending News Writer, Athlon Sports
Cole Sullivan is a Trending News Writer at Athlon Sports, covering the NFL, NBA, College Football, and other major sports with in-depth analysis, breaking news, and year-round coverage.