Dallas Mavericks Experience Coaching Exodus Following Doncic Trade

DALLAS, Texas – The Dallas Mavericks‘ coaching staff is facing significant upheaval following the trade of star player Luka Doncic to the Los Angeles Lakers on February 1.

In a span of just one month, the Mavericks have parted ways with three assistant coaches: Marko Milic, Darrell Armstrong, and Alex Jensen. Milic, a Slovenian coach who joined the Mavericks before the 2022-23 season, opted to leave the team, expressing that he did not wish to remain without Doncic. According to sources close to the situation, Milic’s departure underscores the impact of Doncic’s trade on the team dynamics.

Armstrong, who joined the Mavericks organization in 2009, has been placed on administrative leave amid an investigation following his arrest for aggravated assault with a deadly weapon. His tenure with the team was marked by significant contributions, but this incident has led to his current status being under review.

Meanwhile, Alex Jensen, an assistant for the past two seasons, is reportedly a leading candidate for the head coaching job at the University of Utah, though no formal offer has been extended yet. Jensen played for Utah in the late 1990s and has deep-rooted connections to the state.

As if the coaching changes were not enough, the Mavericks are also grappling with injury woes. Star guard Kyrie Irving is facing a season-ending ACL tear, while Anthony Davis, acquired in the Doncic trade, is sidelined with an adductor strain suffered in his debut with Dallas. The team currently holds a record of 32-31, placing them in 10th position in the Western Conference.

Dallas’s challenges have raised concerns about the team’s direction following high-profile trades. Last season, the Mavericks made it to the NBA Finals, where they lost to the Boston Celtics. However, the current season’s outlook appears grim with injuries and the recent coaching turnover.

Despite the struggles, the Mavericks have announced an 8.61% increase in season ticket prices for the upcoming season. The change was characterized as necessary for ongoing investments in the team and fan engagement, despite potential backlash from fans dismayed by player departures.

The Mavericks face a pivotal period in their franchise’s history. As they navigate the fallout from the trade and coaching changes, Dallas fans can only hope that the team can regroup and find success in the remaining season or strategize effectively for the upcoming NBA Draft.