April 21, 2025
Dallas Mavericks GM Nico Harrison admitted he misjudged the level of fan outrage over the trade of Luka Doncic to the Los Angeles Lakers earlier this season.
Harrison Reflects on Fan Reaction to Doncic Trade
Harrison expected backlash but believed it would fade if Anthony Davis and Kyrie Irving could stay healthy and lead the Mavericks to immediate success.
Instead, injuries derailed the plan:
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Anthony Davis (groin injury)
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Kyrie Irving (ACL tear)
With both stars sidelined, the Mavericks struggled to find consistency, and fan frustration only deepened.
š£ļø Nico Harrison: “Really, we just need to get healthy.”
Harrison Defends Mavericks’ Championship Core
Despite public pressure for major changes, Harrison defended the trade and expressed confidence in the teamās foundation.
He pointed to a healthy lineup of Davis, Irving, Klay Thompson, Dereck Lively II, and P.J. Washington as “championship caliber.”
Luka Doncic Responds to Comments
When asked about Harrisonās defense of the trade, Luka Doncic labeled the comments as “sad” and stated he was ready to move on.
Harrison echoed similar sentiments, saying both sides are focused on the future.
Mavericksā Current Situation
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Finished 39-43, securing the 10th seed in the West.
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Eliminated in the Play-In Tournament by the Memphis Grizzlies.
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Slated to pick 11th in the 2025 NBA Draft.
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Harrison hinted at potential free agency additions but stressed commitment to the current core.
The Mavericksā offseason strategy revolves around health rather than sweeping roster changes.
