Apr 30, 2025; Los Angeles, California, USA; Los Angeles Lakers guard Luka Doncic (77) moves the ball against Minnesota Timberwolves forward Jaden McDaniels (3) during the first half in game five of first round for the 2025 NBA Playoffs at Crypto.com Arena. Mandatory Credit: Gary A. Vasquez-Imagn Images Gary A. Vasquez-Imagn Images

Former Mavericks Champion Reveals He Was Shocked About Luka Doncic Trade to Lakers

Originally posted on Los Angeles Lakers on SI
By Ryan Stano | Last updated Aug 19, 2025 6:00 PM ET

The Los Angeles Lakers pulled off the trade of the century when they were able to acquire Luka Doncic from the Dallas Mavericks. It was a trade that surprised everyone in the NBA.

Mavericks fans, former Mavericks players, and everyone else in the league were shocked. No one could believe that Dallas would part ways with their franchise player.

One former player was absolutely shocked that the Mavericks ended up deciding to trade Doncic. Former champion Tyson Chandler said that he couldn't believe that the trade happened.

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Former NBA champion Tyson Chandler was shocked Luka Doncic was traded to the Lakers

While speaking to Eurohoops, Chandler recalled how much the trade surprised him.

"I was just as surprised as the rest of the world with the trade. I think it will end up working out for both sides, you know, in the long run. But I was just surprised, clearly."

Chandler was on the coaching staff with the Mavericks and worked with Doncic, so he was very surprised to see him head to Los Angeles. It's a move that even surprised Mavericks staffers.

In order for this move to work out for both sides, Anthony Davis has to stay healthy and be an absolute beast. Otherwise, this will be a clear win for the Lakers over the Mavericks.

Doncic has already started an incredible offseason training program to get into the best shape of his life. He is now going to start next season in the best shape he's ever begun an NBA season.

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The Los Angeles Lakers have already made Doncic the future of the franchise

The Lakers have been trying to improve the roster around Doncic this offseason in order to make the trade even better. They signed him to a three-year extension in the offseason to confirm that.

Now, the Mavericks have to figure out how to win without Kyrie Irving out for half of the season. Davis also has to stay healthy for the entire year, which has been an issue in his career.

After he got traded to the Lakers, he averaged 28.2 points, 8.1 rebounds, and 7.5 assists per game. He shot 43.8 percent from the field and 37.9 percent from beyond the 3-point arc.