The Los Angeles Lakers have parted ways with superstar big man Anthony Davis after six seasons, as just ahead of the NBA trade deadline he is now being sent to the Dallas Mavericks in exchange for Luka Doncic.
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That is, AD has now released a long heartfelt message upon the news of his exit from LA.
Anthony Davis posted his farewell to LA and the Lakers on social media 💜💛
(via @AntDavis23) pic.twitter.com/LCmlTW9i9T
— ESPN (@espn) February 3, 2025
"6 years ago, I came here with the vision to win a Championship, and I will never forget the moment we did! The business of basketball is a business just like all other businesses... I am grateful to the city where my first ring came from, grew my family and friendships and I will always have a home here. To my teammates: our friendships go beyond a locker room and a jersey... LA will always have a special place in my heart."
Anthony Davis says goodbye to Los Angeles:
“LA-
6 years ago, I came here with the vision to win a Championship, and I will never forget the moment we did! The business of basketball is a business just like all other businesse….”
Thank you @AntDavis23 💜💛 pic.twitter.com/DnCzfqTL5v
— The Laker Files (@LakerFiles) February 3, 2025
Upon his arrival from the Pelicans (2019-2020 season), AD in his first year alongside LeBron James helped bring the Lakers their 17th championship in franchise history.
LeBron's response to a reporter that claimed he "grown frustrated with Anthony Davis" 😳 pic.twitter.com/aQ7RSQZXQx
— Bleacher Report (@BleacherReport) February 2, 2025
That is, LeBron denied all reports that he and AD weren't on good terms, as he posted a message on IG stating, "Love you my dog!! Go crazy over there!"
LeBron shares a goodbye message for Anthony Davis on IG 😢💔 pic.twitter.com/QGpJKTVD30
— Bleacher Report (@BleacherReport) February 2, 2025
In view of the trade, it appears the Lakers front office couldn't pass up on the Mavs' offer to get a generational 25-year-old superstar in Luka Doncic.
Mavs GM Nico Harrison told ESPN they were zeroed in on bringing Anthony Davis to Dallas (per ESPN's Tim MacMahon)
"I believe that defense wins championships," the Mavs GM said "I believe that getting an All-Defensive center and an All-NBA player with a defensive mindset gives us a better chance. We're built to win now and in the future."
Related: Luka Doncic Breaks Silence On Trade: 'I Thought I'd Spend My Career Here'
