The Dallas Mavericks made arguably the most shocking trade in NBA history on Saturday night, sending Luka Doncic to the Los Angeles Lakers in exchange for Anthony Davis, Max Christy and a first round pick.
And despite whatever rationalizations are out there for the Mavericks return haul, the general consensus is that the team did not receiving nearly enough for Doncic from L.A.
Now, we know why.
According to a report from NBA analyst Kirk Goldsberry of the Ringer, the Mavs would have had a bigger package coming back in exchange for their superstar. However, Lakers GM Rob Pelinka convinced Mavs GM Nico Harrison, to whittle down the deal.
"One of my sources inside the Lakers was indicating that the deal was bigger... There were two firsts, and it was Dalton Knecht. And the deal got whittled down because I think [Lakers GM] Rob Pelinka was able to convince the Dallas Mavericks that Luka is a lot of risk... This fell in Rob Pelinka's lap, and then he was able to reduce the outward Lakers assets."
Obviously, if this report turns out to be true, it is rubbing salt in the wound for Mavericks fans everywhere.
Not only did the team trade arguably the second best player in the world away from pennies on the dollar, but their GM also got significantly out maneuvered by a far more experienced NBA executive.
The Mavericks will be back in action with their new look roster tomorrow night at 6 pm against the 76ers in Philadelphia.