Lakers general manager Rob Pelinka is likely feeling quite pleased after orchestrating a trade that moved 31-year-old Anthony Davis to another franchise in return for 25-year-old Luka Doncic.
Pelinka issued a statement acknowledging Davis’s contributions to the organization:
“We are overwhelmingly thankful for AD’s six seasons with the Lakers, where he led our franchise to a championship and cemented himself as a perennial All-Star.”
On the addition of the Slovenian standout Luka Doncic, Pelinka shared his excitement:
“Luka is a one-of-a-kind, global superstar who will lead this franchise for years to come. His killer instincts and commitment to winning championships will be a driving force for the team.”
Klay Thompson, who has joined Doncic on the Mavericks as he chases a championship with Kyrie Irving, seemed unperturbed by the trade.
“I wish Luka the best,” Thompson stated. “It was a joy to play with him in those 22 games we were together, but we’re obviously going to welcome AD with open arms… It’s the nature of the business; obviously, you have to be professional with all things in front of you. I look forward to keeping the goal the same…”
Suns superstar Kevin Durant expressed surprise at the news of the trade.
“Insane,” Durant commented. “It’s crazy. It’s crazy… I would have never thought Luka Doncic would get traded at this age, mid-season… The NBA is a wild place, man. If he can get traded, then anybody’s up for grabs. For the fans, for somebody spectating, it’s pretty fun. I know it’s kind of nerve-wracking though, probably for Luka, everybody in Dallas, LA, and AD… For everyone involved, I’m sure their heads are spinning right now.”
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