The trade between the Los Angeles Lakers and the Dallas Mavericks involving Anthony Davis and Luka Doncic has been one of the most surprising sports stories of the year. The deal shocked fans not only because of the star players involved but also because it happened unexpectedly.

Before the NBA trade deadline, the Lakers sent Anthony Davis, Max Christie, and a 2029 first-round pick to the Mavericks in exchange for five-time NBA All-Star Luka Doncic. Unfortunately for Dallas, Davis got injured in his first game and has been out since. Meanwhile, Doncic has been thriving with the Lakers, turning them into serious contenders in the Western Conference. Dallas also suffered another blow with Kyrie Irving ruled out for the season due to injury.

In a recent interview, Lakers team owner Jeanie Buss explained the reason behind Davis’ trade. She revealed that the 31-year-old star was unhappy with the position that rookie head coach JJ Redick was playing him in, which led to his frustrations.

Buss’ statement seemed like a subtle jab, as she claimed that the Lakers “got what they were looking for” by sending Davis to Dallas.

“Anthony Davis was complaining about where he was being played and he wasn’t happy,” Buss told NPR. “I believe this move was a win-win for both teams. They got what they wanted, and we got what we were looking for. I didn’t expect it to become such international news, but that shows the power of the Lakers brand and its appeal to top players who want to create their own legacy here.”

In his first nine games with the Lakers, Doncic is averaging 22.9 points, 8.2 rebounds, and 7.7 assists per game. The team has gone 7-2 in that stretch, climbing from the #4 seed to the #2 seed in the Western Conference.