US President Donald Trump Slams Dallas Mavericks-LA Lakers Luka Doncic Deal as 'Worst Trade in Sports History'

US President Donald Trump today delivered a scathing critique of the blockbuster February 2025 trade that sent Luka Doncic from the Dallas Mavericks to the Los Angeles Lakers, branding it as possibly the "worst in sports history." Speaking at the Republican National Committee's midterm convention at the American Airlines Center in Dallas, Trump expressed profound bewilderment over the transaction, drawing an infamous parallel to the Boston Red Sox's sale of Babe Ruth. LA Clippers NBA Penalty: Club Fined USD 30 Million Over Kawhi Leonard Scandal, Owner Steve Ballmer Suspended..

Donald Trump on Luka Doncic Trade

Donald Trump called out the Mavs for trading Luka Doncic:

“I must tell you, I don't understand the trade. That trade is not good. What do I know about basketball? Was it Luka? Maybe we can redo that trade? I redo deals all the time.” pic.twitter.com/SJqfZxzhPM

— BrickCenter (@BrickCenter_) September 10, 2026

"I must tell you, I don't understand the trade," Trump declared to a roaring crowd, questioning the Mavericks' logic in parting ways with their franchise centerpiece. "That trade is not good. It might go down as the worst trade in the history of sports." He then went on to compare the deal to baseball's notorious Babe Ruth sale in 1919, where the Red Sox sent the legendary slugger to the New York Yankees, a move often cited as one of the biggest blunders in sports history.

The Blockbuster Deal

The controversial multi-team trade, which occurred on February 1-2, 2025, saw the Dallas Mavericks dispatch 25-year-old Luka Doncic, along with Maxi Kleber and Markieff Morris, to the Los Angeles Lakers. In return, the Mavericks acquired 31-year-old nine-time All-Star power forward Anthony Davis, young guard Max Christie, and an unprotected 2029 first-round draft selection. The Utah Jazz were reportedly involved in facilitating the intricate three-team exchange.

At the time of the trade, Doncic was in the midst of a strong 2024-25 season with the Mavericks. His departure sent shockwaves across the NBA, fundamentally reshaping the landscape of the Western Conference. NBA Announces 2026-27 Season Schedule; Finals Rematch Between New York Knicks and San Antonio Spurs Set for Christmas Day.

Doncic's Impact in Los Angeles

Since joining the Lakers, Doncic has quickly established himself as a cornerstone of the franchise alongside LeBron James. In his 92 games with the purple and gold thus far, the Slovenian superstar has averaged an impressive 31.9 points, 7.8 rebounds, and 8.1 assists per contest. His seamless transition and immediate impact have only amplified the questions surrounding the Mavericks' decision to trade him.

Trump further emphasized his disbelief, stating, "Maybe we could redo that trade. I redo deals all the time. We gotta redo that deal. I don't get that deal." His impromptu commentary on the NBA transaction provided a memorable highlight to the political gathering, ensuring the much-debated trade remains a topic of fervent discussion in sports circles.

(The above story first appeared on LatestLY on Sep 10, 2026 11:23 AM IST. For more news and updates on politics, world, sports, entertainment and lifestyle, log on to our website latestly.com).