Mavericks ran smear campaign to justify Luka Doncic trade with Lakers: report

· California Post

The Mavericks shocked the league by trading franchise star Luka Doncic to the Lakers in February 2025.

Dallas reportedly ran a smear campaign to justify the shocking blockbuster deal, according to The Athletic’s Sam Amick. Reports about Doncic’s weight, work ethic and other slanders surfaced about the superstar upon his arrival to Los Angeles.

Luka Doncic of the Los Angeles Lakers looks on during the game against the Golden State Warriors on October 21, 2026 at Crypto.Com Arena. NBAE via Getty Images

The Lakers have profited greatly from the trade as Doncic has kicked off a new era for the storied franchise.

Doncic has worked incredibly hard to negate any of the speculation surrounding his tenure in Dallas, including his weight. He has transformed his body, sporting the cover of Men’s Health with a new-and-improved form.

This season, Doncic has a lot to prove to Lakers fans and to the rest of the league.

Luka Doncic of the Los Angeles Lakers prepares to shoot a free throw during the game against the Golden State Warriors on October 21, 2026 at Crypto.Com Arena. NBAE via Getty Images
Former Dallas Mavericks general manager Nico Harrison looks on before the game against the Oklahoma City Thunder at Dickie’s Arena. IMAGN IMAGES via Reuters Connect

NBA general managers voted anonymously in a survey predicting the league’s Most Valuable Player. Doncic received zero votes for the prestigious award, a sign that while he is extremely talented his greatness has recently been overlooked by many.

If Doncic can continue competing how he did on Opening Night against the Warriors, the Lakers have a chance of emerging as a top contender in a loaded Western Conference. The Lakers superstar has made his intentions extremely clear, penning a heartfelt letter to the city of LA ahead of the season opener.