The Los Angeles Lakers made an official announcement tonight regarding the acquisition of Slovenian point guard Luka Dončić, who spent the last six and a half years with the Dallas Mavericks.

“Yes. This is actually happening. Welcome to Los Angeles, Luka,” the team’s official account on X posted, accompanied by an image of Dončić wearing a Lakers jersey.

The trade, which took place the previous night, facilitated Dončić’s move along with Maxi Kleber and Markiph Morris to the Lakers, while Anthony Davis and Max Christie are heading to Dallas.

“Luka is a unique young international superstar who will guide this franchise for many years,” stated Lakers general manager Rob Pelinka, who also acknowledged his appreciation for Davis.

Dončić, who will turn 28 on February 26, was a pivotal player for Dallas during their journey to the NBA Finals last season, where they faced a 4-1 defeat to Boston.

The Slovenian, a five-time All-Star, was the leading scorer in the finals, but Dallas is now looking to bolster its defense, as highlighted by general manager Nick Harrison.

“Defense is key to winning championships. We’ll have a better chance at claiming the NBA title with one of the best centers and a top player focused on defense,” Harrison shared with ESPN.

This trade involving both stars occurred while Dončić and Davis were sidelined due to injuries. Davis (31) recently suffered from stomach pains, while Dončić has been unavailable since Christmas Eve due to a calf injury.

American media reports indicate that this trade was conducted discreetly, with neither the players involved nor the Lakers’ star player, LeBron James, being privy to the details beforehand.

The Lakers currently sit in fifth place in the Western Conference with a record of 28 wins and 19 losses, whereas Dallas is positioned eighth with 26 wins and 23 losses.

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