Lakers Make Historic Luka Doncic Announcement After Confirming Trade

Originally posted on Athlon Sports | By Cole Sullivan | Last updated Feb 2, 2025 3:04 PM ET

The Los Angeles Lakers secured their future centerpiece on Saturday night with a blockbuster trade that saw them acquire 25-year-old star Luka Doncic from the Dallas Mavericks in exchange for Anthony Davis, Max Christie, and a 2029 first-round pick.

Along with Doncic, the Lakers also received forward Maxi Kleber and 2020 NBA champion Markieff Morris. However, following an extended period of silence after ESPN's Shams Charania broke the trade news, the Lakers made it official on Sunday.

General manager Rob Pelinka released a statement confirming the deal and announced that Doncic would be wearing No. 77 with the Lakers—making him the first player in franchise history to do so.

First public statement by Rob Pelinka since the Lakers-Mavericks trade. The Lakers say Doncic will wear No. 77 for L.A. - the first player in franchise history to do so pic.twitter.com/ghcaniAFWW
— Dave McMenamin (@mcten) February 2, 2025

Yes, it really happened. Welcome to Los Angeles, Luka. pic.twitter.com/XdlZZ5IfNo
— Los Angeles Lakers (@Lakers) February 2, 2025

Doncic, since being drafted in 2018, has been one of the league's most prolific talents, with career averages of 28.6 points, 8.7 rebounds, and 8.3 assists. He is widely regarded as a generational player.

Less than a year ago, Doncic led the Mavericks to an NBA Finals appearance, and he was poised to receive a supermax contract this offseason, which reportedly played a role in the trade, as the Mavericks expressed concerns over his health and defensive capabilities.

However, the Lakers see Doncic the way many do—a cornerstone of the franchise for the next decade and beyond. General manager Rob Pelinka emphasized this vision in his latest statement, reinforcing that the organization plans to build around Doncic as they pursue future championships.

"Luka is a one-of-a-kind, young global superstar who will lead this franchise for years to come." Pelinka said. "His killer instincts and commitment to winning championships will be a driving force for the team."

He added, "We will be relentless in building a roster around the on-court vision Coach Redick has for this basketball team and there is an unwavering commitment to that work to serve our loyal and dedicated fans. We are grateful for today and look forward to what's next."

This article first appeared on Athlon Sports and was syndicated with permission.

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