Josh Hart Jokes About Doncic Trade Anniversary as Knicks Rally Past Lakers

Sunday night’s meeting between the New York Knicks and Los Angeles Lakers carried a little extra context beyond the standings. Exactly one year earlier, the Lakers had stunned the league by acquiring Luka Dončić in a headline-grabbing trade with the Dallas Mavericks, a move that reshaped the NBA landscape and remains a frequent talking point around the league.

The original deal — completed shortly after a Lakers road win in New York — sent Anthony Davis, Max Christie and a first-round pick to Dallas in exchange for Dončić. At the time, it sent shockwaves through locker rooms and front offices alike, and players still reference it as one of the most surprising transactions in recent memory.

“One thing I’m mad about that day was that it didn’t happen earlier because Max Christie gave us 15 and we lost,” Hart said with a smile.

This time, though, the Knicks made sure the result was different. New York surged in the second half to secure a 112–100 victory at Madison Square Garden, extending its winning streak and tightening its grip near the top of the Eastern Conference.

1. Anniversary Brings Back Memories

The Dončić trade remains a benchmark moment for the Lakers franchise. Moving a cornerstone like Davis in exchange for a younger superstar was a gamble that few saw coming, and its ripple effects continue to shape both teams’ trajectories. Around the league, players still remember where they were when the news broke. Deals of that magnitude rarely happen midseason, and the sudden shift in power dynamics left a lasting impression. Hart’s comment captured that lingering sense of disbelief. Rather than dwelling on strategy or front-office decisions, he poked fun at the smaller details — namely, Christie’s unexpected scoring burst that contributed to the Knicks’ loss last year. The lighthearted tone reflected how time has softened the shock. What once felt seismic now serves as background chatter, a reminder of how quickly circumstances can change in the NBA.

2. Knicks Flip the Script

On the court, Sunday’s game followed a familiar rhythm early. The Lakers controlled stretches of the first half and carried a 56–52 lead into the break, using crisp ball movement and efficient shooting to keep New York on its heels. But the Knicks emerged from halftime with more energy and defensive pressure. Over the final two quarters, they outscored Los Angeles 60–44, turning stops into transition opportunities and gradually wearing down the visitors. New York’s depth proved decisive. Six players finished in double figures, a balance that made it difficult for the Lakers to key in on any one scorer. Hart contributed 20 points on 8-of-11 shooting, including three made three-pointers, while also adding four rebounds and two assists. His efficient night complemented a collective effort that steadily swung momentum toward the home side.

3. Depth and Momentum Building

OG Anunoby led the Knicks with 25 points and eight rebounds, attacking mismatches and finishing through contact. Landry Shamet followed with 23 points, providing perimeter shooting that stretched the Lakers’ defense. Point guard Jalen Brunson orchestrated the offense with 12 points and 13 assists, setting the table for teammates throughout the second half. Karl-Anthony Towns controlled the glass with 13 rebounds to go with 11 points, while Mikal Bridges chipped in 10 points. The victory pushed New York to 31–18, keeping the team near the top of the Eastern Conference standings. With six straight wins, the Knicks have found rhythm at both ends of the floor and appear increasingly comfortable leaning on their depth. Their focus now shifts to the road, with a matchup against the Washington Wizards next on the schedule. If recent form holds, New York will enter that game with confidence — and perhaps another joke or two ready for the locker room.