"I was shocked, I didn’t know" - Anthony Davis reveals exact moment he was blindsided by Lakers trade

Dallas Mavericks big man Anthony Davis on Tuesday spoke publicly for the first time since being traded to the Mavericks. Like the rest of the NBA world, Davis expressed his surprise at the deal that sent him from the LA Lakers in exchange for Luka Doncic late Saturday night.

Anthony Davis, who met with reporters during the Mavericks' shootaround before Tuesday's game against the Philadelphia 76ers, said he had no idea a trade was in the works.

"I was shocked. I didn’t know," Davis said. "I was actually at home, about to watch a movie with my wife and got the phone call. I had no idea. I just sent the team a text about congratulations on the win over the Knicks, big win. Looking forward to Tuesday's game against the Clippers, as far as standings purposes.

"I found out like an hour later I was no longer with the team. I was in shock, obviously. I had no idea that was happening. But now, I’m kind of over it and just getting ready to play with Dallas."

Davis added that he's excited to reunite with Mavericks general manager Nico Harrison, with whom he established a relationship while Harrison worked with Nike. He also has familiarity with Mavericks coach Jason Kidd, who was an assistant with the Lakers from 2019-21.

Davis, who has been out since he suffered an abdominal strain on Jan. 22 against the Washington Wizards, could return to the court as early as Thursday, when the Mavericks face the defending NBA champion Boston Celtics. If that doesn't happen and he gets through workouts without difficulty, he is expected to play in Dallas' first home game since the trade on Saturday against the Houston Rockets.

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Anthony Davis bids farewell to LA Lakers after blockbuster move to Dallas

Anthony Davis bid farewell to the LA Lakers, thanking his teammates and fans on Instagram on Monday, after being traded to the Dallas Mavericks.

"6 years ago, I came here with the vision to win a Championship, and I will never forget the moment we did! … 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.

"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!" Davis posted.

Anthony Davis' tenure with the Lakers was marked by a championship win in the 2019-2020 season, where he played a crucial role. He averaged 27.7 points, 9.7 rebounds and 3.5 assists per game in the playoffs, leading the Lakers to the title.

Before leaving the Lakers, he averaged 25.7 ppg, 11.9 rpg, 3.4 apg, 1.3 spg and 2.1 apg and was voted an All-Star for the fourth time in his Lakers career.