"I know who Luka was to this franchise" - Anthony Davis shares honest feelings on Mavericks fans' uproar after shocking Luka Doncic trade

Over the weekend, Anthony Davis found himself part of arguably one of the biggest trades in NBA history. As he embarks on this new journey in his career, he addressed the elephant in the room in his first press conference.

Late Saturday night, the Dallas Mavericks and LA Lakers agreed to a league-altering trade. Luka Doncic is joining forces with LeBron James, with AD being the main piece of the return package.

On Friday afternoon, Anthony Davis spoke as a member of the Mavericks for the first time. He didn't downplay the uproar of the trade, aware that Doncic was the primary pillar of the franchise. That said, he is focused on helping this team win basketball games and contending in the Western Conference.

“I know who Luka was to this franchise and this city," Davis said. "I’m never going to downplay that. I’m not surprised by the fan reaction and city reaction. It’s my job to come in and play basketball and do what I’m supposed to do.”

Davis might not be the same caliber of player as Doncic, but Davis is still a star-level talent in the NBA. Before being traded, he was arguably the Lakers' best player on both ends of the floor. This season, AD is averaging 25.7 points, 11.9 rebounds and 2.1 blocks.

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Anthony Davis aiming to have positive impact on Dallas Mavericks fans

Since the trade for Anthony Davis was announced, Dallas Mavericks fans have been in an uproar. Everyone was left stunned by the decision to trade away a superstar talent in the early stages of his prime. As he gears up for his debut, AD is looking to address the current outlook of the franchise.

When talking about the state of the fanbase right now, Davis stated that he wants to bring life back to them following the blockbuster trade. With his skill set, he feels he can help keep the team in a position to fight for a championship.

"What I can control is just go out and just winning basketball games," Davis said. "At the end of the day, I'm gonna give the city life back."

A week after the trade, all eyes will be on Anthony Davis and the Mavericks on Saturday. They're slated to take on the Houston Rockets in their first home game since the blockbuster trade. Given the discourse online, many aren't expecting a warm reception from the fans in attendance.

Along with it being their first home game since the trade, Davis is also expected to make his debut Saturday. He will attempt to make a big first impression to provide some reassurance for the Mavericks. Now flanked by Kyrie Irving and Klay Thompson, the All-Star big man will continue his quest for a title with his new team.