The Dallas Mavericks and Los Angeles Lakers sent shockwaves through the sports world late Saturday night when the two teams agreed on a massive trade that sent Luka Doncic, Maxi Kleber, and Markieff Morris to the Lakers in exchange for Anthony Davis, Max Christie, and a 2029 first-round pick.

The deal came as a complete surprise to everyone outside of Mavericks general manager Nico Harrison and Lakers GM Rob Pelinka, who had been discussing the trade for weeks. Neither Doncic nor Davis knew about the deal until ESPN’s Shams Charania made the trade public, leaving countless fans, former players, and current players in disbelief.

One of those former players was NBA legend and Hall of Famer Magic Johnson, who shared his thoughts on the trade and boldly stated that it was the biggest trade he had ever seen between two NBA stars still in their prime over his 45 years in the association.

“I’ve been associated with the NBA for 45 years and this Luka and AD trade is the biggest trade I’ve seen between two superstars essentially in their prime! With Luka, the Lakers are getting a 25 year old superstar; this is a great long-term move for the Lakers franchise after LeBron retires.” Johnson continued, “Luka Doncic will definitely make the Lakers a championship-contending team. He’ll take pressure off of LeBron because of his scoring ability and playmaking and will make every Laker better! LeBron James will be a positive influence on Luka, teaching him his championship mentality that includes taking his conditioning seriously.”

The Lakers are currently 28-19, coming off an impressive win over the New York Knicks, and sitting at No. 5 in the Western Conference. Luka Doncic is expected to make his Lakers debut within the next five games before the All-Star break, as he nears the completion of his rehab from a calf injury that has sidelined him for just over a month.

Prior to the injury, Doncic was averaging 28.1 points, 8.3 rebounds, and 7.8 assists. At just 25 years old, he has already established himself as one of the league’s brightest stars, with career averages of 28.6 points, 8.7 rebounds, and 8.3 assists since entering the league in 2018.

Los Angeles Lakers general manager Rob Pelinka speaks with president of basketball operations Magic Johnson at Honda Center.

Gary A. Vasquez-USA TODAY Sports

Now, he’ll join forces with LeBron James, who Doncic referred to as his idol during his rookie season with the Mavericks. Over the years, the two have built a strong relationship, both as competitors and as teammates during the All-Star Game.