Lakers roster following the Luka Dončić-Anthony Davis trade

Introduction: The Luka Dončić and Anthony Davis Trade

In a blockbuster trade, the Los Angeles Lakers have traded Anthony Davis to the Dallas Mavericks in exchange for Luka Dončić. While this might seem like a drastic move, it’s important to analyze how such a transaction would fundamentally reshape the Lakers both as a team and an organization.

Anthony Davis has been one of the cornerstones of the Lakers’ championship run in 2020, offering elite defense, rebounding, and scoring. Meanwhile, Luka Dončić is an emerging superstar—arguably already one of the best players in the league. The move to acquire Dončić would signal a shift toward a new era for the Lakers, moving from their current reliance on LeBron James and Davis to a more youth-driven core with Luka leading the way.

The trade could significantly change the team’s identity, both offensively and defensively. The Lakers’ front office will have to carefully navigate the salary cap, team chemistry, and roster needs as they build around Luka for the future.

The Los Angeles Lakers: Current Structure and Luka Dončić’s Role

Luka Dončić’s Impact

At just 24 years old (as of 2025), Luka Dončić is already a proven MVP candidate and one of the top players in the NBA. His skill set is versatile and dynamic: he can score, pass, and rebound at an elite level, and his basketball IQ is off the charts. Luka’s ability to carry a team on his back, while also setting up teammates, makes him the kind of player who can immediately change the fortunes of any franchise.

For the Lakers, Luka would likely be positioned as the new face of the franchise. His role as the primary ball handler, floor general, and offensive focal point would allow LeBron James to transition into more of a complementary role, even though LeBron would still be a key player due to his age-defying ability.

What sets Luka apart is his ability to dominate the game on both ends of the floor. His offensive arsenal includes a lethal step-back three-pointer, exceptional pick-and-roll execution, and an ability to get to the rim with ease. His passing vision is among the best in the league, and his ability to create for others will be vital for a Lakers team that has traditionally thrived on ball movement and player versatility.

Defensively, Luka is not known for his prowess, but he is certainly capable of being a serviceable defender when he’s engaged. The Lakers would need to surround him with defensive-minded players to compensate for this, especially considering the loss of Anthony Davis’s elite defense.

The Lakers’ Offensive Strategy Post-Trade

Luka’s arrival would instantly transform the Lakers’ offense. His playmaking ability and scoring prowess mean that the Lakers would become a more dynamic and unpredictable team offensively. The Lakers could shift to a more perimeter-oriented offense, with Luka running the point guard duties and LeBron James playing more off-ball or in transition. In terms of floor spacing, Luka’s ability to shoot from deep and operate in the pick-and-roll system could open up lanes for players like LeBron, as well as a potential stretch big (depending on how the roster evolves).

One of the challenges for the Lakers would be integrating Luka’s style of play with LeBron’s. LeBron, who thrives with the ball in his hands, could take some time to adjust to a system where Luka is more of the focal point. However, LeBron’s basketball IQ and ability to adapt mean that this transition could be seamless, especially if the coaching staff emphasizes off-ball movement and spacing.

The New Look Lakers Roster

With Luka Dončić now the centerpiece of the team, the Lakers’ roster would undergo significant changes. Let’s break down the key players and positions post-trade.

Point Guard: Luka Dončić

Luka would undoubtedly fill the point guard position, though his role would likely be a hybrid of point guard and shooting guard due to his elite scoring ability. His ability to create shots for others while also being a go-to scorer would make him the engine of the offense.

Shooting Guard: LeBron James

LeBron James would likely shift to playing the shooting guard or small forward position, depending on matchups. He would still remain a primary ball handler in certain situations, but his role would evolve into more of a secondary playmaker and a focal point for the team’s defensive strategy. Given LeBron’s experience and leadership, his transition into this new role would be critical for the Lakers’ success.

Small Forward: [Acquired Player or Role Player]

Given the departure of Davis in this trade, the Lakers would likely need to acquire a complementary small forward to fill the starting role. This could come via free agency or a subsequent trade. A player who can shoot, defend, and contribute as a secondary option on offense would be crucial here.

Power Forward: [Acquired Player or Role Player]

Similar to the small forward position, the Lakers would need to acquire a reliable power forward to fill the void left by Davis. Depending on the financial situation, they could look for a solid defender and rebounder who can space the floor. Ideally, the Lakers would seek someone who can provide a scoring punch but also hold their own defensively in key moments.

Center: [Potential Replacement for Davis]

The Lakers would need a legitimate starting center to take over for Davis. This would likely be a rim protector and rebounding presence who could complement Luka and LeBron. Ideally, someone who can play in a pick-and-roll system with Luka, set solid screens, and provide a defensive presence in the paint.

Role Players

Shooter/Three-and-D Player: Surrounding Luka with shooters would be critical, especially considering how much attention Luka commands on the floor. The Lakers would need players who can hit open shots off the ball, particularly from beyond the arc. The presence of strong perimeter shooters would open up the paint for Luka and LeBron to operate.
Defensive Specialist: Since Luka isn’t known for his defense, the Lakers would likely seek players who can excel defensively to balance out the roster. A wing defender who can guard multiple positions and defend in clutch situations would be key.
Bench Depth: As with any major trade, bench depth becomes even more important. The Lakers would need to ensure that their second unit has the ability to provide scoring, defense, and energy. Players who can step up in the absence of LeBron or Luka would be vital in keeping the team competitive on both ends of the floor.

The Lakers’ Championship Aspirations

After acquiring Luka Dončić, the Lakers would likely find themselves in a transition period where the team is reshaped to fit his strengths. While the team would still have some star power in LeBron, much of the success of the Lakers post-trade would depend on how well Luka meshes with the new pieces and how quickly the coaching staff can integrate a more perimeter-based system.

The team would likely still be competitive in the West, though they may take a step back defensively with the loss of Anthony Davis. Depending on how well they address defensive holes in the roster and how well Luka and LeBron gel, the Lakers would still be playoff contenders, but winning a championship might require more roster moves.

One of the keys to success would be surrounding Luka with defensive-minded players who can defend the perimeter and rim, allowing him to focus on what he does best: scoring and creating for others. If the Lakers are able to acquire more talent in the form of role players and defenders, they could quickly find themselves back in contention.