Luka Doncic is headed to the Dallas Mavericks, with Trae Young going to the Atlanta Hawks after an intriguing draft night trade took place. Doncic and Young landing with the Mavericks and Hawks respectively will be one of the biggest takeaways from a memorable 2018 NBA draft.
As most people expected, the Phoenix Suns took DeAndre Ayton first overall, according to Arizona Republic. The rest of the NBA draft instantly became a mystery once the Sacramento Kings wound up on the clock.
The Kings took Marvin Bagley, which opened the door for the Atlanta Hawks to either keep their pick or trade it away. The Hawks entertained several NBA trade offers for the No. 3 pick before agreeing to a deal with the Dallas Mavericks, according to ESPN.
The Dallas Mavericks have agreed in principle to send their pick this year, No. 5 overall, and next year's first-round pick for the rights to Luka Doncic. Going back to the Atlanta Hawks is high-scoring guard Trae Young. Also, the Mavericks' pick will have some protections attached to it.
The details of the trade between the Mavericks and Hawks suggests that it was costly for Dallas to move up two spots, however, they were able to get the player they wanted. In fact, both the Mavericks and Hawks will walk away feeling pleased about the draft night trade.
Luka Doncic finds himself with a Dallas Mavericks' organization that has some stability with Rick Carlisle and the coaching staff on the roster. Doncic likely could not have landed in a better situation for him, career wise.
Dirk Nowitzki will be around with the Mavericks for at least one more season. He could be looked upon as a mentor for Luka Doncic as he begins his Mavericks' tenure.
The Mavericks used Dennis Smith at point often this past season. Smith will now be able to alternate on and off the basketball for the Mavericks with Doncic giving them a more traditional lead guard.
What cannot be overlooked is the fact that international players have thrived with the Dallas Mavericks. Luka Doncic comes with proven credentials and he should be able to adapt quickly.
