NBA star could make earlier than expected debut after blockbuster Lakers-Mavericks trade

The NBA and the world of basketball has been rocked by the blockbuster trade between the Los Angeles Lakers and the Dallas Mavericks, which has seen Luka Doncic move to California along with Maxi Kleber and Markieff Morris, while Anthony Davis, Max Christie and a 2029 first-round draft pick are off to Texas.

Doncic, a five-time NBA All-Star by the age of 25, has garnered the majority of the attention, with many perplexed by the fact the Mavs instigated the deal. Some have put that down to the Slovenian’s diet and conditioning, others believe it was due to his recent injury problems.

When will Doncic play his first game for the Lakers?

The guard has already missed a large chunk of the season, although the Lakers appear to have swooped for him just as he’s about to make his return. The most recent update suggest Doncic may make his first appearance for his new team before the All-Star Game, which takes place on February 16. You can pencil in the Lakers’ game against the Utah Jazz at Delta Center in Salt Lake City on February 12.

What shouldn’t be forgotten, however, is that the trade isn’t just about Doncic. In Davis, the Mavericks have got their hands on a 10-time NBA All-Star, who also happens to be an NBA champion and was named All-Star Game MVP back in 2017. And, crucially, despite his 31 years, Dallas believe Davis is a better bet for them moving forward than Doncic.

Will Anthony Davis play for the Mavericks against the Celtics? Injury update

Like the man he has just swapped place with, though, Davis doesn’t start his spell with his new team completely injury free. The two-time Olympic champion is on the Mavs’ injury report for Thursday’s game against the Boston Celtics at TD Garden because of an abdominal muscle strain.

Davis was previously listed as being out but has since been upgraded to questionable, which suggests he is trending in the right direction and could ultimately be involved for the first time against the Celtics on February 6.

Christie made his own Mavericks debut in Tuesday’s defeat to the Philadelphia 76ers, recording 15 points and nine rebounds.

Get your game on! Whether you’re into NFL touchdowns, NBA buzzer-beaters, world-class soccer goals, or MLB home runs, our app has it all.

Dive into live coverage, expert insights, breaking news, exclusive videos, and more – plus, stay updated on the latest in current affairs and entertainment. Download now for all-access coverage, right at your fingertips – anytime, anywhere.