The Dallas Mavericks shocked everyone by sending Luka Doncic to the Los Angeles Lakers.

Rich PaulRich Paul (Photo by Kirby Lee/Imagn Images)
They dealt him in exchange for Anthony Davis and Max Christie. Though it was hard to believe for someone who has been following both the teams for long, so it was for Rich Paul.

NBA agent Rich Paul recently opened up on the blockbuster trade at Gil’s Arena and shared his surprise. Paul stated that even though he often has insider knowledge, this particular trade caught him completely off guard. He emphasized that the timing and the players involved were unexpected for everyone, and he was relieved he did not have any advanced notice.

“99.9% of the time, I’m going to know what’s going on. The one time I didn’t was the one time we all didn’t… I’m glad I didn’t know because it probably wouldn’t happened if you did know,” Paul said.

However, it is hard to believe that he was unaware of whatever was happening. He is the agent of Anthony Davis, LeBron James, Draymond Green, Bradon Ingram, Lonzo Ball, and more. And his influence on the trade block is apparently high. Earlier, Paul expressed his surprise at the trade’s timing and the players involved, though he acknowledged that the destination for Davis was somewhat expected.

Paul admitted that even he, a figure known for his extensive network in the NBA, was unaware of how quickly this deal came together. Despite the confusion, Paul hinted that the relationship between Davis and Harrison was a key element in the decision-making process.

Agent Rich Paul Reveals Teams Can Trade Despite The Restriction

Once the Luka Doncic-Anthony Davis trade has finally settled, details keep emerging on what played a crucial role in the trade. Rich Paul recently shared some insightful thoughts on the trading dynamic in the league. According to him, no player is truly safe from the possibility of a trade, regardless of contract stipulations.

During his appearance at Gil’s Arena, Paul acknowledged that while a select few players have no-trade clauses, they can’t guarantee immunity from a move.

“Look, obviously, anybody can be traded. We see that, right? Even if you have that, and somebody is saying they want to trade you, even if you have that restriction, you still don’t feel warned at that point because you know they want to trade you. So, it doesn’t matter. … It may protect you from going somewhere you don’t wanna go but, in this case, you are still going to be traded or you still feel unwanted,” Paul revealed.


Paul elaborated that a no-trade clause may offer a sense of security. However, it does not protect players from the emotional effects of trade discussions. He noted that even with such protection, knowing a team is trying to trade them still causes unease.

At the heart of his message is the reality that the NBA operates as a business above all else. Paul made it clear that contracts and salaries are simply part of the larger game. He also highlighted a crucial truth in professional sports: players are assets.