Introduction

As the 2026 NBA trade deadline approaches, this Sunday marks a significant milestone in league history: the one-year anniversary of one of the most surprising and monumental trades ever executed. In February 2025, the Dallas Mavericks orchestrated a shocking blockbuster deal, sending superstar Luka Dončić to the Los Angeles Lakers in exchange for a host of talents, including Anthony Davis, Max Christie, and future draft assets. The implications of this trade continue to reverberate throughout the league, as both teams adapt to their new circumstances.

The Blockbuster Deal

The trade was initiated by the Mavericks, under the leadership of general manager Nico Harrison, who sought to revamp the team's roster despite just having reached the NBA Finals the previous season. The shocking swap saw Luka Dončić—one of basketball’s brightest young stars—head to Los Angeles, with the Lakers also acquiring forwards Maxi Kleber and Markieff Morris. In return, Dallas received Anthony Davis, the promising young guard Max Christie, and a valuable 2029 first-round draft pick, along with the Utah Jazz, who snagged Jalen Hood-Schifino and two second-round picks in 2025.

Immediate Aftermath for Dončić and the Lakers

Luka Dončić wasted no time proving why he’s regarded as one of the top offensive talents in the NBA. Following his move to the Lakers, he notably averaged 28.2 points, 8.1 rebounds, 7.5 assists, and 1.6 steals per game. His shooting splits of 43.8 percent from the field and 37.9 percent from three-point territory established him as integral to the Lakers' schemes. Fast forward to the current season, and Dončić is excelling further, leading the league with an astounding 33.7 points per game while also contributing 8.8 assists and 7.8 rebounds on staggering shooting efficiencies of 47.7 percent from the field, 34.7 percent from three, and 78.0 percent from the free-throw line.

Davis and the Mavericks' Challenges

On the flip side, Anthony Davis's arrival in Dallas has been a mixed bag. While he brings undeniable talent, averaging 20.2 points, 10.8 rebounds, and 1.8 blocks per game with a 49.2 shooting percentage, his availability has been a significant concern. Injuries plagued his transition to Dallas, causing him to miss considerable time during his stint, including a left adductor strain and an eye injury during the previous season. This year, the trend continued with a left calf strain leading to further missed games, compounded by recent hand surgery that has sidelined him.

Maxi Kleber and Markieff Morris: Looking for Opportunities

Maxi Kleber and Markieff Morris’s contributions added layers of depth to the Lakers' roster, but both players faced challenges of their own. Kleber spent the entirety of the previous season recovering from a foot procedure and has been limited this season due to an oblique strain. In the few appearances he's made, he's averaged only 2.0 points and 1.8 rebounds in 11.4 minutes per game, securing a modest 35.7 shooting percentage.

Meanwhile, Morris had a brief tenure with the Lakers post-trade, playing a mere eight games before not being retained in the offseason. His absence has allowed the Lakers to open up new avenues for roster improvement.

The Silver Lining: Max Christie’s Emergence

While the Mavericks navigate the challenging landscape brought on by Davis's injuries, there’s promising news in Max Christie. The young guard has emerged as a top asset for Dallas, thriving in his expanded role. After connecting on 36.4 percent of his three-point attempts last season, Christie has seen an uptick in performance during the 2025-26 season, averaging 13.2 points, 3.5 rebounds, and 2.2 assists per game with impressive shooting numbers of 47.6 percent from the field and 44.5 percent from beyond the arc.

The Jazz's Role in the Trade

Adding another layer to the trade is the involvement of the Utah Jazz. They secured Jalen Hood-Schifino as part of the deal but chose to waive him shortly afterward. The two second-round picks received were used to select guards in the draft, although Hood-Schifino's release clarified the Jazz's strategy for future development.

Conclusion: A Year of Consequences and Opportunities

Reflecting on the trade one year later, it is clear that the implications of the Dončić and Davis swap continue to shape the fortunes of both the Lakers and Mavericks. With Dončić shining in Los Angeles, leading the charge offensively, and Davis dealing with persistent health issues in Dallas, the outcome of this trade weighs heavily on the capabilities of the two franchises. Ultimately, if both teams can navigate their landscape, particularly with players like Christie blossoming for Dallas and the potential return of Davis to form, the effects of this trade may just be beginning.