NBA players share anonymously their initial reaction to the Luka Donsic and Anthony Davis trade between the Lakers and Mavericks.
Luka Doncic and Anthony Davis changed their careers forever in February 2025. Both players traded with the Lakers and the Mavericks, respectively.
Both are great players, but some have questioned the fairness of the deal. Patrick Beverly claimed that Donsic and Davis had denied that they could not rival.
It’s still very novel to see both players in these new teams. LeBron James even admitted that he was not completely satisfied with Anthony Davis’s new situation.
But how do other NBA players feel about the situation? Many of them finally dealt with what they thought for the first time.
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In a massive report by Athletic, several NBA players spoke about Lukadon Sic and Anthony Davis’s trade sentiment.
“I didn’t think that was a wise decision. It’s very shocking,” said one NBA player. Another unnamed star insisted, “Psychosis. It didn’t make sense. I don’t know how it makes sense.”
“Dallas decision? Stupid. Lakers decision? Great,” says one NBA player, looking at both sides of the deal. While another person realized where the Mavs came from, “I think (Mavs) wanted someone to defend and attack.”
“Anthony Davis should not act like he’s a top 75 player, a perennial All-star and not an all-NBA guy. But you’d imagine it comes with some first-round picks.”
One NBA star believes that patience may be rewarded, saying, “I think you know when, but I think Dallas created the trade in hopes of Anthony Davis being healthy.”
Another player reflected these feelings. “I want to see everyone appear healthy next year, but now I think the Lakers have certainly won that deal.”

Luka Donsic had no desire to leave the Mavericks, but it’s hard to argue that this trade with the Lakers isn’t helping him.
Don Sic and the Mavericks came across the final hurdle last year and collapsed in the NBA finals with the Boston Celtics.
Now, Doncic is definitely on a better team with better co-stars. Kyrie Irving is a great player, but Lebron James is one of the best ever and is definitely an upgrade.
Whether this year or later, the Lakers give Luka Donsic the best chance he’s had in his career to win the NBA championship.