Mavericks Predicted to Go After Former Lakers Star After Luka Doncic Trade

Originally posted on Athlon Sports | By Elie Deglaoui | Last updated May 26, 2025 2:39 PM ET

Back in February, the Los Angeles Lakers acquired Luka Doncic from the Dallas Mavericks in one of the most stunning trades in recent history. Though the Mavericks got a solid return in Anthony Davis and Max Christie, many believe this trade was a questionable one for them to make.

Dallas missed the playoffs this season after losing in the Play-In Tournament, but they landed the No. 1 pick in the upcoming NBA Draft. It remains to be seen what they will do with the pick, but the Mavericks are in a great position to select Duke star Cooper Flagg, who most believe is the best player in the draft, if they choose to do so.

After making an NBA Finals appearance less than a year ago, the Mavericks will look to have a bounce-back year next season. In order to do so, they may have to make some changes in the offseason, including adding a player Lakers fans should be very familiar with.

In addition to the departure of Doncic, the Mavericks have other backcourt problems to deal with as Kyrie Irving suffered an ACL injury in March and likely won't return until 2026. Dallas has some decisions to make, and that may include a trade for former Lakers guard Lonzo Ball.

According to NBA insider Marc Stein (subscription required), the Mavericks will likely explore trades for three veteran guards, including Ball. Additionally, per Stein, the Mavericks may also have interest in Boston Celtics guard Jrue Holiday and impending free agent guard Chris Paul.

"League sources say Dallas is expected to at least explore whether there are any feasible trade pathways to Boston’s Jrue Holiday...while also maintaining an interest in a far more reasonable trade target as we’ve discussed on the DLLS Mavs podcast: Lonzo Ball," Stein wrote. "Another name to monitor for Dallas: Chris Paul."

Ball, who has been with the Chicago Bulls since 2021, could be a solid addition for the Mavericks. The point guard would fill many voids for Dallas, especially in the backcourt.

This offseason should be a big one for the Mavericks. They will have the No. 1 pick in the draft and a whole offseason to maximize their roster. Until there is more clarity, Ball is a name to monitor for the Mavericks as a possible offseason addition.

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

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