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The Dallas Mavericks have delivered frustrating news involving Luka Doncic that directly affects the Los Angeles Lakers as the NBA trade deadline nears. Dallas is willing to make moves, but not the ones the Lakers were hoping for.
Los Angeles already missed out on potential trade targets De’Andre Hunter and Keon Ellis earlier in the deadline cycle. Now, their path to meaningful upgrades appears even narrower after new details emerged about the Mavericks’ plans.
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NBA insider Marc Stein reported that Dallas still views itself as a seller at the deadline, but the team is unwilling to part with players connected to the Lakers’ interest. That stance removes several options that could have helped Los Angeles address its roster weaknesses.
One of the Lakers’ rumored goals was reuniting Luka Doncic with forward Naji Marshall. Marshall has enjoyed a breakout season and could have provided energy, scoring, and defensive effort off the bench for a Lakers team lacking depth.
However, Stein reported that the Mavericks have no intention of trading Marshall or Max Christie, who arrived in Dallas as part of the Anthony Davis deal. Instead, Dallas is exploring potential trades involving Daniel Gafford, Klay Thompson, and D’Angelo Russell.
Marshall’s emergence aligns with the Mavericks’ long-term direction as the franchise begins building around top prospect Cooper Flagg. Since earning a steady starting role, Marshall has averaged 17.5 points per game in January, making him a valuable piece Dallas wants to keep.
Rather than moving younger contributors, the Mavericks appear focused on shedding veteran contracts. The goal is to create financial flexibility ahead of the offseason, when Kyrie Irving is expected to return and play a central role in the team’s plans.
This development is a setback for the Lakers, who continue searching for defensive help. Despite owning a 29–19 record, Los Angeles ranks among the league’s five worst defensive teams this season.
As a result, the Lakers have leaned heavily on Luka Doncic and their offensive firepower to secure wins. Team president Rob Pelinka could still pursue a defensive specialist, with Pelicans wing Herb Jones mentioned as a possible target, though such a move would likely cost a future first-round pick.
Dallas has also shown a willingness to listen to offers for Anthony Davis. According to Shams Charania of ESPN, the Toronto Raptors and Atlanta Hawks have expressed interest in the 12-time All-Star as the Mavericks weigh their options.
From the Lakers’ side, uncertainty remains due to injuries. LeBron James missed 14 games earlier in the season, while Austin Reaves has now missed 19 straight games with a calf injury, making it difficult to judge the team’s true ceiling.
Reaves has been a key piece when available, averaging 26.6 points per game this season. However, the Lakers’ core trio has only played eight games together, increasing the risk of committing major assets before fully evaluating the roster.
With prime trade targets now off the board, the Lakers may be headed toward a quiet deadline. Minor depth moves remain possible, but the franchise is increasingly expected to focus on the offseason to build a more complete roster around Luka Doncic and its star core.
FAQ:
Why did the Mavericks block a potential Luka Doncic reunion?
The Dallas Mavericks are focused on keeping key young contributors like Naji Marshall rather than facilitating a reunion involving Luka Doncic. According to reports, Dallas prefers to move veteran contracts instead of players who fit its long-term plans.
Is Naji Marshall available in trade talks?
No, the Mavericks are not interested in trading Naji Marshall. NBA insider Marc Stein reported that Dallas views Marshall as a core piece after his breakout season and has no plans to include him in deadline deals.
Which players are the Mavericks willing to trade?
The Mavericks are exploring potential trades involving Daniel Gafford, Klay Thompson, and D’Angelo Russell. These veterans could help Dallas create salary flexibility ahead of the offseason.
How does this impact the Lakers’ trade deadline plans?
This limits the Lakers’ options significantly. With several targets off the board, Los Angeles may be forced to either overpay for defensive help or approach the deadline cautiously.
Why are the Lakers seeking defensive help?
Despite a strong 29–19 record, the Lakers rank among the NBA’s five worst defensive teams this season. The team has relied heavily on Luka Doncic and offensive production to win games.
Could the Lakers still make a trade?
Yes, but any major move appears unlikely. Herb Jones of the New Orleans Pelicans has been mentioned as a possible target, though acquiring him would likely require a future first-round pick.
Are the Mavericks open to trading Anthony Davis?
Yes. According to Shams Charania of ESPN, the Mavericks are listening to offers for Anthony Davis, with the Toronto Raptors and Atlanta Hawks showing interest due to his availability.
How have injuries affected the Lakers this season?
Injuries have made it difficult to evaluate the roster. LeBron James missed 14 games earlier in the season, and Austin Reaves has missed 19 straight games with a calf injury.
Why are the Lakers hesitant to make a big move now?
The Lakers’ core players have only appeared in eight games together. With limited data, committing significant assets before fully seeing the team’s potential carries major risk.
What is the likely outcome for the Lakers at the deadline?
The Lakers may opt for a quiet trade deadline, focusing on minor depth upgrades. Bigger roster changes are expected to be addressed in the offseason around Luka Doncic and the team’s long-term goals.
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