The LA Lakers made a significant move in February by acquiring Luka Doncic from the Dallas Mavericks, and team owner Jeanie Buss recently shared the details of how they were able to keep the trade under wraps until it was finalized. In a conversation with SiriusXM NBA Radio, Buss emphasized the importance of secrecy in making the trade happen, stating that leaks could have jeopardized the deal.
Buss credited Lakers’ general manager Rob Pelinka for orchestrating the trade and keeping her informed throughout the process. She acknowledged the risks involved in making a trade mid-season, especially with a first-year head coach, but ultimately believed that adding Doncic to the roster would make the team better.
Since joining the Lakers, Doncic has been a key contributor on both ends of the floor, averaging impressive numbers in points, rebounds, and assists. The team finished the regular season with a strong record and secured the No. 3 seed in the playoffs. Despite facing a tough opponent in the Minnesota Timberwolves in the first round, Doncic’s experience and skill set give the Lakers confidence moving forward.
Buss expressed her confidence in the trade, noting that her late father, former Lakers owner Jerry Buss, would have been proud of the move. She likened the acquisition of Doncic to going all-in in a high-stakes poker game, emphasizing the team’s commitment to building a championship-caliber roster.
As the Lakers set their sights on a title run this season, Buss remains optimistic about their chances. The journey to the NBA Finals won’t be easy, but with Doncic leading the way, the Lakers are poised to make a deep playoff run.
The article was written by Orlando Silva, a member of the Sportskeeda NBA roster with a passion for covering the league and providing insights on trending stories and rumors. Silva also has a background in sports journalism and a keen interest in the NFL.
Overall, the Lakers’ acquisition of Luka Doncic has been a game-changer for the team, and Buss’s strategic approach to the trade has positioned them as serious contenders in the postseason. With Doncic’s talent and leadership, the Lakers have a strong chance to compete for a championship this year.