The Dallas Mavericks’ blockbuster trade sending Luka Doncic to the Los Angeles Lakers in exchange for Anthony Davis and Max Christie continues to stir speculation. NBA insider Marc Spears recently claimed on The Cedric Maxwell Podcast that Boston Celtics star Jaylen Brown played a pivotal role in Dallas’ decision to move on from their franchise cornerstone.
“People talk about what he did offensively, [but] that dude, he is the reason why Luka got traded,” Spears said, referencing Brown’s performance in last season’s NBA Finals.
Brown was instrumental in leading the Celtics to a five-game series victory over the Mavericks, earning Finals MVP honors. Spears pointed to Brown’s relentless defense on Doncic as a major factor in Dallas’ thought process.
“He shut him down in the Finals. What he did to Luka in the Finals, shutting him down, guarding him full court, making it unbearable offensively… led Dallas to start questioning Luka as the leader of this team, questioning whether he was in shape or not,” Spears continued.
Jaylen Brown’s Defense Raised Concerns About Doncic’s Leadership
Brown’s defensive dominance seemingly raised red flags within the Mavericks organization. While Doncic remained an elite offensive force, questions about his conditioning and leadership reportedly intensified following the Finals loss.
Spears also weighed in on the mindset of Mavericks GM Nico Harrison, indicating that the front office didn’t take the trade decision lightly.
“I know Nico real well – he doesn’t just do stuff. I think there’s more to that story that they’re trying to be respectful and not go into the weeds,” Spears added.
The trade has dramatically altered the trajectories of both teams. With Davis and Kyrie Irving leading the charge, Dallas remains in the Western Conference playoff mix despite injuries. Meanwhile, the Lakers are working to integrate Doncic into their system alongside LeBron James.
Doncic Finding His Rhythm in LA
Since joining the Lakers, Doncic has played four games, averaging 19 points, 7.5 rebounds, 5.8 assists, and 1.5 steals per game. After recovering from a calf strain that sidelined him for two months, he delivered a standout performance in Saturday’s 123-100 win over the Denver Nuggets, posting 32 points, 10 rebounds, seven assists, four steals, and a block.
The Lakers (34-21) currently sit fourth in the Western Conference, just 2.5 games behind the Nuggets for second place. Doncic is set for a highly anticipated first matchup against his former team when the Lakers face the Mavericks on Tuesday at 10:00 p.m. ET on TNT.
As speculation continues over the true reasons behind Dallas’ decision to part ways with Doncic, his performance in Los Angeles will be under close scrutiny. “But now we’ll see how things go with Luka in LA, things will be much more magnified,” Spears concluded.
