Part 3/8:
Experts established a hierarchy of significant trades in NBA history based on their shock value and the circumstances leading up to them. They categorized trades into six levels, with this most recent Dončić trade landing at the highest tier—characterized by the absence of any genuine anticipation or forewarning.
Historically, big trades involved rumors or discussions that hint at the possibility. However, in this case, analysts were blindsided. They expressed a desire to better understand the Mavericks’ reasoning for trading a player of Dončić's caliber, especially considering that he ranks among the top players in scoring, assists, and rebounds.