Why the Mavericks Kept Luka Dončić Off the Trade Market Before the Anthony Davis Deal

The Dallas Mavericks and Los Angeles Lakers made NBA history on February 1st, finalizing a blockbuster trade that shocked the basketball world. This trade, featuring Luka Dončić and Anthony Davis, was the first-ever in-season deal involving two reigning All-NBA players.

As news of the trade spread, many fans and analysts were left wondering: How did the Mavericks keep this under wraps? More details have since surfaced, offering insight into why Dallas never publicly shopped Dončić before sealing the deal with the Lakers.

Dallas Had Eyes on Anthony Davis—And No One Else

According to longtime NBA insider Marc Stein, the Mavericks’ front office, led by General Manager Nico Harrison, was laser-focused on acquiring Anthony Davis—not maximizing their return for Dončić. Backed by new majority owner Patrick Dumont, Harrison made a strategic decision: “(Nico) Harrison made the decision, supported by new Mavericks majority owner Patrick Dumont, to pursue (Anthony) Davis and pretty much no one else. The Mavericks did not make Dončić available to interested teams for the richest possible haul of draft picks. Sources say that the Mavericks are convinced that this move brings back a top-10 player in the league as well as a 2029 first-round pick from the Lakers.”

This revelation explains why there was zero trade buzz surrounding Dončić prior to the deal. Had Dallas explored multiple offers, leaks would have inevitably surfaced. Instead, the Mavericks operated in total secrecy, ensuring the trade took the NBA world by storm.

The Strategic Thinking Behind the Trade

The Mavericks’ decision to target Davis reflects their belief that he keeps their championship window open for the next few years. While Dončić is only 25 years old and has made five consecutive All-NBA teams, concerns about his conditioning and defensive effort reportedly played a role in the trade.

After the deal, Harrison addressed the media, offering a glimpse into the team’s thought process. Speaking to ESPN’s Tim MacMahon, Harrison emphasized defense as a key factor: “I believe that defense wins championships,” Harrison said. “I believe that getting an All-Defensive center and an All-NBA player with a defensive mindset gives us a better chance. We’re built to win now and in the future.”

This statement makes it clear: the Mavericks viewed Davis’ defensive dominance as a missing piece in their title ambitions. Despite Dončić’s offensive brilliance, Dallas prioritized two-way impact over sheer scoring power.

Did the Mavericks Make the Right Call?

While Dallas’ front office believes this move sets them up for long-term success, reactions in the Lone Star State have been mixed. Trading a franchise player like Dončić—who just led them to the NBA Finals—is a risky gamble. The Mavericks now hinge their future on Anthony Davis staying healthy and anchoring their defense.

Only time will tell if Nico Harrison’s bold move pays off. But one thing is certain—the NBA landscape has been forever changed by this historic trade.