In a blockbuster move, the Los Angeles Lakers have reportedly acquired Luka Doncic from the Dallas Mavericks in exchange for Anthony Davis.

ESPN reported yesterday (Philippine time) that the deal will also see Maxi Kleber and Markieff Morris go to the Lakers, while Dallas will also receive Max Christie and Los Angeles’ 2029 first round pick.

The trade also involves the Utah Jazz, who will get Lakers guard Jalen Hood-Schifino, as well as 2025 second round picks from the LA Clippers and Mavericks.

In a statement to ESPN, Dallas general manager Nico Harrison said the move gives them a chance to “win now and in the future” with Davis as the anchor of their defense.

“I believe that defense wins championships,” said Harrison.

“I believe that getting an All-Defensive center and an All-NBA player with a defensive mindset gives us a better chance.”

In Doncic, the Lakers will get a player to build around in the post-LeBron James era.

Drafted by the Mavericks with the third pick of the 2018 Rookie Draft, the Slovenian is already a five-time All-Star and a five-time All-NBA First Team Selection.

He led the Mavs to the NBA Finals in 2024, losing to the Boston Celtics.

Davis, meanwhile, is a 10-time All-Star who helped the Lakers win the 2020 NBA championship.

He came to the Lakers in a blockbuster trade with the New Orleans Pelicans in July 2019. (ABS-CBN News)