The Los Angeles Lakers' acquisition of Luka Doncic in February 2025 marked one of the most significant trades in NBA history, as it was the first time two reigning All-NBA players were exchanged midseason. The Lakers sent Anthony Davis, Max Christie, and a 2029 first-round pick to the Dallas Mavericks in exchange for Doncic, Maxi Kleber, and Markieff Morris.
While the move aimed to bolster the Lakers' championship aspirations, the team ultimately fell short, exiting the playoffs in the first round after a loss to the Minnesota Timberwolves.
Since joining the Lakers, Doncic has averaged 28.2 points, 8.1 assists, and 7.5 rebounds in 28 games. However, his defensive struggles and conditioning have drawn criticism, particularly during the playoff series against the Timberwolves.
Los Angeles Lakers guard Luka Doncic (77).
Los Angeles Lakers guard Luka Doncic (77).
Jesse Johnson-Imagn Images
In the aftermath of the trade and LA's elimination, a report has surfaced that the Chicago Bulls were eager to acquire Doncic. According to Joe Cowley of the Chicago Sun-Times, a source indicated that Bulls executive Arturas Karnisovas and his front office "would have offered anyone and everyone on the roster had they been notified by the Mavericks that Luka Doncic was available in February."
However, the Mavericks only engaged in trade discussions with the Lakers, and the Bulls' potential offer was never considered.
This revelation sparked a wave of reactions from NBA fans on social media, many of whom questioned the Bulls' ability to assemble a compelling trade package for Doncic:
"Did I miss the Bulls having anyone better than AD? That team is a pile of garbage. You couldn’t even trade the entire roster for a third-team All-NBA player," a fan wrote.
"For who?? Vuc and Ayo," one fan added.
"The Bulls are washed; no one wants to play in Chicago," another fan joked.
"Bulls don’t got a single player worthy of trading Luka for," a fan noted.
"Just for Luka to be playing with some scrubs lmao," another fan mentioned.