Mavericks’ GM Fired After Controversial Luka Doncic Trade

Dallas, Texas – Former Mavericks general manager Nico Harrison was fired last week following the fallout from the controversial trade of star player Luka Doncic to the Los Angeles Lakers.

Mark Cuban, a minority owner who has stepped in as an advisor, shared details about the trade. He recalled receiving a text from Harrison while attending an event in Florida. “I get a text from Nico: ‘Call me.’ I thought he was telling me that he’s thinking about it, then I realized it’s done. And then it’s like, nothing I can do, not my party — I wasn’t happy about it,” Cuban said.

The Dallas Mavericks also recently faced criticism for losing Jalen Brunson to the New York Knicks, seen as another significant misstep during Harrison’s time. Sources indicate that Harrison attributed several personnel mistakes to Cuban, particularly regarding the decisions made in the summer of 2022.

After Cuban sold the controlling stake in the Mavericks to the Dumont family in 2023, expectations shifted. Initially expected to maintain control over basketball operations, Cuban’s role changed, leading to Harrison making the trade that sent Doncic to the Lakers for Anthony Davis, guard Max Christie, and a future first-round pick.

The Lakers secured a strong asset in Doncic, who is currently averaging a career-high 34.6 points per game, while the Mavericks have struggled with a 4-12 record, plagued by injuries and roster mismanagement.

As for Anthony Davis, he has played infrequently for the Mavericks due to injuries since the trade, raising questions about the team’s future direction. NBA insider Marc Stein reported that the Mavericks are considering trade offers for Davis as they reassess their strategy amidst ongoing struggles on the court.

Cuban mentioned past decisions, reflecting on the team’s history. “That’s in the past. Maybe it’ll be his Steve Nash, and maybe Luka will go on to win two MVPs,” he said, referring to the time the Mavericks moved on from Nash before achieving success.

The ongoing challenges for the Mavericks raise the stakes for their next moves as they navigate a difficult season.