Dismiss those calling it a move solely for the future of the franchise, because Luka Doncic + LeBron Davis adds up to a pair basketball savants who can contend together immediately.

NBA trade deadline has passed and one thing is certain: the Lakers came out on top. The Lakers pulled off one of the most jaw-dropping moves in recent memory by acquiring Luka Doncic from the Dallas Mavericks.

The Trail Blazers would likely want to make room to have more minutes for Donovan Clingan, who they recently selected early in the 2024 NBA Draft. For the Lakers, meanwhile, Ayton could have at least some tangible valuable as a player who has postseason experience and tremendous size on the inside.