A little over a month ago, the entire NBA was put on notice with one of the most shocking trades in league history. The key players in the acquisition were none other than Luka Dončić and Anthony Davis. Many never saw Dončić leaving the Mavericks, but to everyone’s surprise, it happened.
The biggest concern for the Lakers was defense, especially after losing an All-Defense caliber player in Davis. Los Angeles quickly put those fears to rest, as they now boast one of the best defenses in the league. Before their most recent game on Tuesday, the Lakers had allowed 102 points or fewer in seven consecutive games.
Dončić and LeBron James have quickly become the best duo in the league. Many believe that Dončić’s addition has extended James’ career. Former Syracuse legend and James’ former teammate, Carmelo Anthony, believes this is the happiest the 22-year veteran has ever looked playing basketball.
“I’ve never seen [LeBron] as happy as he looks playing the game right now. They are a lockdown defensive team right now, with Luka [Dončić]… The roles [are] reversed now. [LeBron James is Anthony Davis] right now, & Luka is him,” Anthony said.
Anthony didn’t stop there and elaborated further: “So now Bron knows, all I have to do is run the court. I’m gonna get a mismatch. If Luka throws it, I can go get it,” he added.
Having been close throughout their careers, Anthony and James share a mutual understanding of how each feels.
A month later, it seems the Lakers won the trade—not only because Dončić is tearing up opposing defenses, but also because Davis played only one half for Dallas before suffering an injury. The Lakers have quickly transformed from pretenders to contenders in the span of just a month. James is chasing ring number six, while Dončić is aiming for his first.
