Mavericks Fans Erupt in Protest Over Luka Doncic Trade to Lakers

DALLAS (AP) — Hundreds of Dallas Mavericks fans gathered outside the American Airlines Center on Saturday to protest the team’s decision to trade Luka Doncic to the Los Angeles Lakers in exchange for Anthony Davis, Max Christie, and a 2029 first-round draft pick. The trade, which was announced on February 2, has sent shockwaves through the NBA and left fans reeling.

Fans held signs, chanted slogans, and expressed their frustration with General Manager Nico Harrison, who they blame for the move. “We want Luka here, Nico we don’t want here anymore,” one fan chanting in the crowd. “This was not business, it’s personal. We want them to sell the team. We want Luka in this city where he belongs.”

The protest came ahead of Anthony Davis’ first home game with the Mavericks against the Houston Rockets. Davis, a 10-time All-Star and former NBA champion, acknowledged the fans’ feelings but emphasized his commitment to performing on the court. “I’m not surprised by the fans’ reaction or the city’s reaction,” Davis said during his introductory news conference. “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 on why Nico brought me here.”

Nico Harrison defended the trade, highlighting the need to improve defensively. “I believe that defense wins championships,” he said. “AD is an experienced veteran who can play both ends of the floor while helping elevate us defensively.”

Fans, however, remain unconvinced. One fan dressed like a cowboy addressed Harrison directly, saying, “You know nothing about basketball. You traded a generational talent who is still in his prime, and you’ve given all these excuses about his physical condition. It’s just so stupid. You need to resign now, we don’t want you here.”

The trade has been met with widespread criticism, with many questioning the decision to trade Doncic, who has been the face of the franchise since his rookie season. Donkic, a five-time All-Star and the 2019 NBA Rookie of the Year, is considered one of the league’s most versatile and dominant players.

As the Mavericks look to move forward with their new roster, fans are left to grapple with the loss of a player who had become a beloved figure in the city. “Luka was more than just a basketball player to this city,” said another fan. “He was a symbol of hope and a reminder of what it means to be a Maverick. Trading him feels like a betrayal.”

Chess and basketball will be important as the season progresses, but for now, the focus remains on the fans and their reaction to a trade that has left the city in shock.