By: Dorothy J. Gentry
Sports Editor
Photos: Dorothy J. Gentry
“The vibes are high and the energy is great,” said new Mavericks big man Anthony Davis during a press conference to introduce him, Caleb Martin and Max Christie to the Dallas Mavericks.
The press conference came a week after the Mavs made the surprise move of trading star and face-of-the-franchise Luka Doncic to the Los Angeles Lakers for Davis, Christie and a first-round pick from the Lakers. Fans are still reeling from the stunning trade.
“I understand it,” Davis said. “Obviously, it’s a business and I get who Luka was to this franchise, to this city. I’m never going to downplay that. It’s just how I know what I meant to the city of LA. So, I’m not surprised by the fans’ reaction and the city’s reaction.
“I think my reaction is like everyone else’s. I was shocked. But you can’t stay in that state of emotion for a long time.”
A 10-time All-Star, four-time All-NBA first team pick, three-time NBA All-Defensive first team selection he also led the NBA in blocks on three occasions.
“Obviously, I’m a defensive-minded guy and I think adding what I’m able to do defensively — whether it’s in the pick-and-roll, on the post, on the perimeter, whatever the case may be — I can add value to this team and help the guys who are already great defensively, and also help the guys who maybe struggle,” Davis said. “Bringing that defensive energy (and) that defensively mindset to this team, that’s what we are going to lay our hats on.
“You can’t control the ball going in every single night, but you can control your energy and effort on the defensive end. So, that’s what I’m going to try to do and that’s what I want to instill into the guys.”
Said Christie: “I’ve noticed that, for me kind of coming in as the new guy, everybody’s kind of just crowding around me and trying to make me feel comfortable, so I appreciate that a lot about the organization (and) about the team. It feels like a big family for sure.
“I think that’s important for any organization that’s trying to win at a high level, being able to have everybody on the same page, and I feel that as the new guy coming in they’ve been able to welcome me with open arms,” Christie continued.
“I feel a lot more comfortable kind of getting to know the guys, know the coaching staff better and all the staff that works here. It’s one big family and something that I really appreciate from the organization so far.”
Meanwhile, Martin, acquired from the Philadelphia 76ers – along with a second-round pick – this past week for Quentin Grimes and a second-round selection – hasn’t played since Jan. 10 due to a sprained hip injury.
“I’m feeling a lot better,” Martin said. “I’m progressing really well. Still taking it day-by-day, but I’m assuming that I’ll come back fairly quickly.
“I’m just trying to stay focused on the rehab. I’m definitely seeing progress and I’m definitely headed in the right direction.”
The vibes are high, the energy is great, Davis said. “I like our team. I like the way the guys are playing. I’m excited to play to add value to this team. It’s going to be an exciting season for us, but it’s my job to come in and play basketball and do what I’m supposed to do and give the fans hope and reassurance of why Harrison brought me here.”
