Luka Doncic losing $116 million will cause ‘dramatic fallout’ for NBA’s future, claims ESPN analyst
Stephen A Smith did not mince his words on the latest segment of the First Take Show reagarding Luka Doncic's blockbuster trade.
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Stephen A Smith and Luka Doncic
Stephen A. Smith had the perfect reaction when the news shocked the sports community on Saturday night. The historic deal between the Dallas Mavericks and Los Angeles Lakers, which sent Luka Doncic to LA in exchange for a package that included Anthony Davis, stunned everyone. Smith posted a ‘shocked’ reaction on X.
In addition, Smith now made a bold statement on the recent segment of the First Take Show. He pointed out that Doncic’s trade to the Lakers is much more than just a ‘normal trade.’ It’s important to note that, Doncic will be losing a whopping $116 million which he would have earned if he were to stay at the Mavs. Smith stressed on this, stating the league has made a ‘statement’ in some way.
“It was a statement being made as far as I’m concerned not just by the Dallas Mavericks, but by the league. And I think the fallout is going to be dramatic to say the least.”
Stephen A. Smith said
.@stephenasmith was SHOCKED by the Luka trade and believes there’s so much more to this move.
— First Take (@FirstTake) February 3, 2025
“It was a statement being made as far as I’m concerned not just by the Dallas Mavericks, but by the league. And I think the fallout is going to be dramatic to say the least.” pic.twitter.com/vYQGDQDZMS
Additionally, the Mavericks are trading Doncic, Maxi Kleiber, and Markieff Morris to the Lakers. This is in exchange for Davis, Max Christie, and a 2029 first-round pick. In addition, Jalen Hood-Schifino from the Lakers and 2025 second-round picks from the Mavs and the Los Angeles Clippers (via LAL) will be given to the Utah Jazz.
As for Doncic, he is now battling injuries and will soon be back on the court. Given that, he has played 22 games as of yet in the 2024-25 NBA season. In these games, he has been averaging 28.1 points, 7.8 assists, and 8.3 rebounds, showcasing his all-around ability in the sport. All eyes will be on Doncic’s debut with the Lakers, once he is fit and raring to go.
NBA star Giannis Antetokounmpo had ‘straight-forward’ reaction to Luka Doncic trade
The news of Luka Doncic‘s trade startled the Milwaukee Bucks, like many others in the league, including Giannis Antetokounmpo. The Bucks star man initially believed it to be a joke. However, after verifying that the transaction had been completed, he offered his opinions on the league’s constantly changing environment.
“It’s insane. Obviously, I’ve played against Luka many times, along with AD and everyone else involved in the trade. This is the reality of the NBA—it’s a business. You have to understand that nobody is safe, nobody is untouchable.”
Giannis Antetokounmpo said
There are enormous expectations while competing at the highest level of any sport. Both good and bad judgments are frequently beyond a player’s control, and fans want perfection. For example, Doncic was unprepared for the move and did not influence his trade. This showcases the uncertain nature of franchises and their trade market.
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Kartik Mudaliar
(915 Articles Published)