NBA Commissioner Adam Silver admitted that the league still cannot comprehend the massive trade deal that sent Luka Dončić to the Los Angeles Lakers from the Dallas Mavericks in exchange for Anthony Davis, Max Christie, and a 2029 first-round draft pick.
Two weeks after the shocking move, Silver stated he was “surprised” when he learned about The Trade. He also questioned whether the deal might have been motivated by an effort to relocate the franchise, despite later discarding that theory. This concern has eroded trust among Mavericks fans, who held a mock funeral outside the arena and had a spectator escorted from the building after expressing discontent.
The league is taking note of this fan backlash. Silver expressed empathy for the Mavs’ fans, acknowledging Dončić’s stunned reaction to the trade. The commissioner has also praised Dončić, stating he likes him “truly authentic” and recognizing his talent.
Dončić led the Mavericks to the 2024 NBA Finals, averaging impressive numbers last season. The lack of rational explanation for the deal remains a mystery, with general manager Nico Harrison citing a small circle of people in making the decision without a league-wide auction. While Silver defended the move as being made with the best interest of the organization, the trade’s impact on fans is undeniable.
As players like Victor Wembanyama and Jaren Jackson Jr. noted, The Trade has sparked widespread excitement among NBA stars. However, for Mavericks fans, the news has left a sour taste, with many feeling betrayed by their team’s leadership.
Source: https://sports.yahoo.com/nba-all-star-2025-two-weeks-later-the-league-and-its-stars-still-cant-comprehend-luka-doncic-trade-011304564.html