As a player who was once traded for Trae Young, Luka Doncic had some thoughts on Wednesday night’s Hawks-Wizards blockbuster.
Just after Young was jettisoned from Atlanta to D.C. for CJ McCollum and Corey Kispert, Doncic was asked about the trade due to his famous 2018 NBA Draft night ties with the four-time All-Star point guard.
“Obviously we came in together — we got traded for each other,” Doncic said following the Lakers’ loss to the Spurs in San Antonio. “So, it’s been a lot of talk about me and him. But we have a good relationship. I have a lot of respect for him.
“So if he’s excited for this new journey, I’m excited for him.”
After being taken by the Hawks with the No. 3 overall pick in the ’18 draft, Doncic was traded to Dallas for Young, who was selected by the Mavericks just minutes later at No. 5.
The guys ended up becoming stars for their respective teams, although in a unique twist, both have now been traded.
Doncic, of course, was sent to the Lakers last year, and while it was initially stunning, he’s quickly become the face of the franchise.
Earlier this week, it was announced he’s still the leading All-Star vote getter from fans, and on Wednesday, he said he was honored.
“It’s pretty amazing,” he said. “A kid from Slovenia, you know, just only can dream about that.”
Doncic and Young could face off on the court again as early as this month — as the Lakers are scheduled to travel to D.C. to play the Wizards on Jan. 30.
