The spectacular trade between the Lakers and Mavericks that brought Luka Doncic to Los Angeles was probably no secret internally for quite some time. According to NBA insider Kirk Goldsberry, the Lakers front office had known about the impending move for over a month and was preparing the roster accordingly.
While the basketball world was surprised by the blockbuster trade between the Los Angeles Lakers and the Dallas Mavericks, the planning in the background had apparently been going on for weeks.
“The entire front office knew for almost a month,” Goldsberry told The Ringer. According to him, Lakers owner Jeanie Buss was informed at an early stage, while the management around Rob Pelinka went through various scenarios with Doncic as the new central figure. Those in charge were already considering how number 77 would fit into the system and what personnel adjustments would be necessary.
Since joining Los Angeles, Doncic has averaged 19.0 points, 9.0 rebounds and 7.0 assists in five games. The Lakers have won three of those five games and are currently in fifth place in the Western Conference. Despite some initial difficulties, it is clear that the team around LeBron James and Doncic is developing a new dynamic – with clear ambitions for the playoffs.
