Denver Nuggets star Nikola Jokic was equally shocked by the news that his close friend Luka Doncic was traded from the Dallas Mavericks to the Los Angeles Lakers in a major deal.
The trade made waves across the NBA, with Doncic heading to the Lakers in exchange for Anthony Davis, Max Christie, and a 2029 first-round pick. Additionally, LA acquired Maxi Kleber and Markieff Morris.
“It’s probably the biggest trade—I’m not going to say history—but probably in the last 10 to 15 years,” Jokic said on Monday after the Nuggets’ 125-113 victory over the Pelicans. “Seems like nobody is safe, and it probably should be that way.”
Jokic shared that he has spoken to Doncic since the trade and is confident his friend will succeed in Los Angeles.
“I don’t think he expected it, of course. He just needs to be with family right now. It’s a business,” Jokic explained. “But I think he’s going to do a good job. He’s a player for the big scene. Although I thought he had something special going in Dallas.”
Doncic arrived in Los Angeles on Sunday and is scheduled for an official introduction on Tuesday. He joins LeBron James, aiming to lead the Lakers to their first championship since 2020.
Doncic, who has been sidelined due to a calf injury since Christmas, is expected to return soon. Prior to the injury, he was averaging 28.1 points, 8.3 rebounds, and 7.8 assists in 22 games.
