Thunder Star Jalen Williams Gives Reaction to Massive Luka Doncic Trade to Lakers

Courtney Tate | Feb 16, 2025

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The NBA trade deadline delivered one of the most shocking and unprecedented moves in recent memory, as the Los Angeles Lakers and Dallas Mavericks pulled off a blockbuster deal.

In an unexpected twist, the Lakers sent superstar forward Anthony Davis to Dallas, while the Mavericks traded their cornerstone, Luka Dončić, to Los Angeles.

This trade instantly reverberated through the basketball world, with players, fans, and analysts alike grappling with the seismic implications of such a high-profile swap.

At All-Star Game Media Day, players continued to react to the stunning trade.

Oklahoma City Thunder star Jalen Williams, who is making his debut All-Star appearance this season, was asked about the implications of Dončić joining the Lakers.

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Williams, who has been enjoying a standout season with 21.0 points and 5.5 rebounds per game, shared a candid response.

“Probably had the same reaction as all of you — it’s one of those trades that never happens or you thought would happen.” His words echoed the disbelief many in the NBA community expressed when the trade was announced.

Jalen Williams on the Luka-AD trade:

“Probably had the same reaction as all of you — it’s one of those trades that never happens or you thought would happen.” pic.twitter.com/scMjDVV9Lz

— Noa Dalzell 🏀 (@NoaDalzell) February 15, 2025

For the Lakers, acquiring Dončić, at just 25 years old, offers an exciting future beyon James.

The addition of Dončić, a player already considered one of the most dynamic and talented in the league, allows the Lakers to build around him once James eventually steps away from the game.

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Dončić’s incredible scoring ability, playmaking skills, and high basketball IQ make him a perfect centerpiece for a championship-caliber team. And with James still playing at an elite level, the Lakers now have a chance to pair one of the greatest players of all time with one of the brightest young stars in the league.

The idea of Dončić and James on the same team is a terrifying prospect for the rest of the NBA.

Their complementary skills could make for a potentially unstoppable duo.

While James has long been known for his leadership, versatility, and basketball genius, Dončić brings a unique blend of scoring, vision, and maturity for his age. Together, they have the potential to elevate the Lakers to new heights, with Austin Reaves and Rui Hachimura rounding out a formidable supporting cast.

Meanwhile, the upcoming NBA All-Star Game on Sunday, February 16, will also showcase James in his 20th appearance — a feat that just earned him the most All-Star Game appearances of all time, surpassing the legendary Kareem Abdul-Jabbar.

James’ presence on the court continues to be a symbol of his dominance and enduring excellence in the league, further cementing his place in basketball history.

As the Lakers embark on this new era with Dončić, fans are excited to see how this new dynamic unfolds — and if it will lead to another championship run for the storied franchise.

More Lakers:

Nuggets Star Nikola Jokic Responds to Lakers Trade For Luka Doncic

Spurs’ Victor Wembanyama Reacts to Luka Doncic Trade to Lakers

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