For AD, Luka Doncic was unexpected: The three worst NBA trade blunders involving Kentucky players

From Luka Dončić’s shocking trade for Anthony Davis to the surprising exits of DeMarcus Cousins and John Wall, several NBA trades involving former Kentucky Wildcats have stunned fans and left a lasting mark on the league.

The NBA is no stranger to headline-grabbing deals, but some trades truly caught the basketball world off guard. The biggest surprise came in February 2025, when Luka Dončić was dealt to the Los Angeles Lakers—a blockbuster move that sent shockwaves across the league. But that wasn’t the only jaw-dropping trade involving Kentucky alumni. From Anthony Davis’s short-lived stint in Dallas to DeMarcus Cousins’ sudden departure from Sacramento, former Kentucky stars have been central to some of the most memorable—and controversial—trades in recent memory.

One of the most eye-popping transactions occurred on February 2, 2025, when the Dallas Mavericks traded 25-year-old Dončić to the Lakers in exchange for 31-year-old Anthony Davis, Max Christie, and a 2029 first-round pick. The Utah Jazz were also part of the deal, acquiring Jalen Hood-Schifino and two second-rounders. The NBA community was stunned, with Shams Charania having to confirm the legitimacy of the deal. Even Dončić reportedly thought it was a prank and smashed his phone when he heard the news.

Why It Backfired: The trade was a disaster for Dallas. Dončić, a generational talent who was averaging 28.6 points and 8.7 rebounds per game, was swapped for an aging Davis, who despite being a 10-time All-Star, struggled with injuries. The Mavericks’ goal of improving their defense didn’t materialize, and they were bounced from the playoffs by the Memphis Grizzlies. Post-trade, Dallas stumbled to a 12-18 record, while both Davis and Kyrie Irving dealt with injury setbacks. Analysts widely praised the Lakers, giving them an “A,” while Dallas was slapped with an “F.”

Kentucky Ties: Davis, a former No. 1 overall pick and Kentucky legend, became the centerpiece of the deal from Dallas’ perspective. Yet his elite defense couldn’t replace Dončić’s offensive dominance, leaving Mavs fans frustrated and questioning the front office’s decision-making.