"I'll never forget" - Anthony Davis shares first thoughts since shocking Lakers departure to Mavericks

Dallas Mavericks star Anthony Davis penned a heartfelt and emotional message to the LA Lakers following the blockbuster trade. On Instagram, Davis posted a video of his time with the Lakers with a lengthy caption. AD was thankful for his six years with Los Angeles and hyped up the Mavs for what was to come.

"6 years ago, I came here with the vision to win a Championship, and I will never forget the moment we did!" Davis wrote. "The business of basketball is a business just like all other businesses… I am grateful to the city where my first ring came from, grew my family and friendships and I will always have a home here.

"My family and I thank everyone who made this place home and we are still thinking of those that lost their homes in the fires," he continued. "To my teammates: our friendships go beyond a locker room and a jersey… LA will always have a special place in my heart. Every great story has an exciting next chapter…

"Dallas- Here we come!"

ESPN's Shams Charania confirmed that the Lakers traded Davis, Max Christie, and a first-round pick to the Mavericks over the weekend. In exchange, Los Angeles received Luka Doncic, Maxi Kleber, and Markieff Morris.

Anthony Davis achieved his primary objective during his six seasons with the Lakers: winning a championship for LA. He was selected as an All-Star three times and earned All-NBA honors twice. The 10-time All-Star averaged 24.8 points, 11.0 rebounds, 3.2 assists and 2.2 blocks while with the team.

Anthony Davis' fit with Kyrie Irving and Klay Thompson

Anthony Davis is officially the man in the middle for the Mavericks moving forward. Since the front office values defense, they went all in and traded Davis for a chance to win a title. Dallas could make a few adjustments in how they play now that Doncic isn't with the team.

Kyrie Irving could be the full-time ball handler for the Mavs. For the past 19 games, Irving was one of the primary players who had the ball in their hands because of Doncic's absence. Klay Thompson, on the other hand, won't change much with the way he plays. He'll still serve as the veteran shooter of the team.

The frontcourt of Davis with Daniel Gafford is something to look out for. While Gafford isn't the most intimidating force inside, he can still protect the tin as he averages 1.8 blocks this season.

Additionally, fans should look forward to seeing AD and Dereck Lively II man the paint for the Mavericks. Unfortunately for Dallas, Lively will be out for two to three months because of a foot fracture.

With Davis, the Mavs' interior defense has been elevated, which the team's general manager Nico Harrison, believes to be the key to them winning a title.