As the dust settles on the blockbuster trade that sent Anthony Davis to the Dallas Mavericks in exchange for Luka Dončić, the seasoned forward is looking ahead, putting the past behind him. Speaking with the Los Angeles Times after a tense game between the Mavericks and the Lakers—the first since the high-profile trade—Davis reflected on his emotional transition and what’s next for him.
By the way, we’re still shocked by that trade.
Despite sitting out the game due to an adductor injury, Davis was still touched by the tribute video the Lakers played in his honor. “If I was playing, it would have been a little bit more emotional for me,” he shared. “I think that it was really dope for the Lakers to do, obviously, and I’m honored and appreciative, for them even considering to do that for me.”
Gotta love the optimism and professionalism of Davis.
However, Davis also clarified that he’s come to terms with the trade, accepting that such moves are simply a part of the game. “The front office has to do what it has to do and obviously they’re going to do what’s best for the organization,” Davis explained. “So I don’t know if I ever got the ‘real’ about any of it. I don’t know what’s true or what’s not, coming from upstairs.” He went on to voice his skepticism, saying, “Everybody’s saying nobody knew and all this other s***. I just don’t believe it.”
Regardless of the details, Davis remains focused on his future with the Mavericks, stating, “They wanted who they wanted. They did what they had to do. I don’t know if they had to, but it’s what they wanted to do. I moved on. I got a wife and kids to worry about, you know what I’m saying? And I’m figuring out how I’m going to get them to Dallas and get adjusted to that. It’s over with, and I’m moving on with my new team and what we got going on.”
Davis made his debut for the Mavericks earlier this month, showcasing his talents with an impressive performance: 26 points, 16 rebounds, seven assists, and three blocks. However, he had to exit early due to the adductor injury.
Some Dallas fans voiced their displeasure with the Dončić trade outside the arena, pointing fingers at Mavericks general manager Nico Harrison. Yet inside, Davis received a warm welcome. When his name was announced in the starting lineup, the 31-year-old forward was greeted with a standing ovation, which no doubt helped ease his transition into the next chapter of his career.
As the trade saga unfolds, Davis is focused on the future, leaving the uncertainty behind and embracing his new life with the Mavericks.