NBA Hall of Famer Kevin Garnett isn’t holding back on his latest hot take, and this one has the potential to shake up the 2025 NBA Playoffs discourse.
After the blockbuster trade that sent Luka Doncic to the Los Angeles Lakers and Anthony Davis to the Dallas Mavericks, both teams have undergone major transformations. While early skepticism surrounded the deal, Garnett believes it’s all coming together for a seismic showdown.
In a recent episode of the "All the Smoke" podcast, Garnett made a bold proclamation: the Lakers and Mavericks are destined to meet in the Western Conference finals—and it will “break the internet.”
Since the trade, the Mavericks have retooled their lineup around Davis and Kyrie Irving, banking on Davis' elite defense and interior dominance. However, Davis is currently nursing a left adductor strain.
Meanwhile, the Lakers, led by LeBron James, Doncic and a revitalized supporting cast, have adjusted to their new offensive dynamic. Dalton Knecht has emerged as a key contributor for Los Angeles, while Jaxson Hayes has drawn comparisons to Dereck Lively II for his ability to protect the rim and finish lobs.
Garnett didn’t hold back in his prediction.
“That Dallas and the Lakers—I’m seeing it because I’m seeing with Hayes—it’s the new Lively," he shared with Matt Barnes and JR Rider on an episode of "All the Smoke." "If y’all see it, he can catch a lob, he’s gonna block your shot. … Listen, my crystal ball says I got the Lakers and the Mavs in the Western Conference finals. That’s gonna break the internet.”
Considering the big names and major franchises involved, Garnett’s forecast is as explosive as it gets. If his vision holds true, the NBA could be in for a thrilling playoff battle fans won’t want to miss.
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