NBA Exec Said ‘What the F–kity F–k?’ to Luka Dončić, Anthony Davis, Lakers Trade

Andrew PetersFebruary 2, 2025

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The Dallas Mavericks shocked NBA fans on Saturday when they traded the face of their franchise, Luka Dončić, to the Los Angeles Lakers in return for Anthony Davis.

But the move didn’t just stun fans. Front offices were perplexed as well.

NBA insider Zach Lowe said a handful of executives around the league voiced their disbelief about the trade.

One exec said, “This is the first time I’ve been legitimately shocked and could not move,” while another added, “What a terrible deal.”

Another exec’s text message to Lowe perhaps best encapsulated the feeling among NBA fans after the deal.

“What the f–kity f–k?????” the executive said.

Before Saturday, trading a player of Dončić’s caliber was unheard of. At just 25 years old, Dončić already has five All-Star appearances, five All-NBA First Team appearances and has arguably been one of the best five players in the league over the past few seasons. Not to mention, he led the Mavericks to the NBA Finals last year.

Davis is an outstanding player and is more than capable of leading Dallas to a championship, but he’s 31 years old and likely past his prime while Dončić still seemingly has his best years ahead of him.

Ultimately, the Mavericks “had major concerns” about Dončić’s “conditioning issues,” per ESPN’s Tim MacMahon, which was enough for them to part ways with the superstar.

The deal could end up looking better in a few years, but for now, fans and executives alike can’t believe the trade.