Former Dallas Mavericks champion and 2012 Defensive Player of the Year Tyson Chandler is now a player development coach for the Mavericks. But just like everybody, he was completely caught off guard by the stunning trade that sent Luka Doncic to the Los Angeles Lakers for Anthony Davis.

After being criticized for his shortcomings on defense all offseason, Luka Doncic showcased incredible defensive discipline during a recent friendly matchup against Latvia.

Los Angeles Lakers guard Luka Doncic (77) looks back at Dallas Mavericks forward P.J. Washington (25) after driving the baseline with an off-balanced score in the fourth quarter at the American Airlines Center in Dallas, April 9, 2025.

Tyson Chandler was a major piece of the lone championship in Dallas Mavericks history, anchoring the defense of a team that shut dwn the first year of the Miami Heat's Big 3.

The teams now forever intertwined by last season’s shocking trade are set to match up four times next season, beginning with an NBA Cup matchup in Los Angeles on Nov. 28. However, Dallas fans will have to wait until Jan. 24 to again welcome Doncic back to Texas when the teams face off for the second time.

The LA Lakers recently re-signed center Jaxson Hayes to a one-year, $3,449,323 contract. His length and athleticism, combined with his ability to play above the rim, bode well for superstar Luka Doncic.

The Los Angeles Lakers hired a former Dallas Mavericks coach who comes with a stellar resume. Jeremy Holsopple is taking up the head strength and conditioning