The Los Angeles Lakers and Dallas Mavericks have been at the center of NBA discussions since their blockbuster trade in February 2025, which saw Luka Doncic and Anthony Davis swap teams in a historic midseason move. This unprecedented exchange of two All-NBA talents reshaped both franchises and continues to generate buzz ahead of what is set to be a busy offseason.

In the aftermath of the trade, the Mavericks, despite long odds, secured the No. 1 overall pick in the 2025 NBA Draft. They are widely expected to select Duke’s standout forward, Cooper Flagg, a prospect hailed for his versatility and potential to become a franchise cornerstone.

Adding to the intrigue, the Lakers announced an exciting development ahead of draft night.

LA’s 2024-25 home preseason schedule includes a marquee matchup against the Mavericks on Oct. 15 at T-Mobile Arena in Las Vegas. This game is part of the Lakers’ tradition of bringing basketball to Las Vegas, a city with a rich history of hosting NBA events.

The prospect of a preseason showdown featuring Doncic, LeBron James, Anthony Davis, and potentially Cooper Flagg has sparked a flurry of reactions from fans after it was pointed out by ESPN’s Dave McMenamin.

“We’ll see Cooper vs the Lakers very soon,” one fan wrote.

“AD, Cooper, and Bron,” another fan added.

“Another humiliation ritual for Luka,” claimed one fan. “Play the Lakers vs Mavs pre-season in front of Nico and Dumont in Las Vegas. Lol. The NBA really hates this guy. It’s not enough they already gave them Cooper Flagg, they want to rub it in.”

“Cooper Flagg vs Bronny,” a fan remarked.

“Luka Doncic and LeBron James will take on Anthony Davis and likely, Cooper Flagg, before the NBA season even starts,” ClutchPoints posted.

The Oct. 15 preseason game in Las Vegas promises to be a compelling early look at the new dynamics of both teams, as they prepare to contend for an NBA championship next season.