Mavericks’ Shock Move to Trade Luka Doncic Causes Backlash
The Dallas Mavericks made a surprise decision just before the NBA trade deadline by trading away their star player, Luka Doncic.
Doncic had helped lead the team to the NBA Finals last season, but it seems the Mavericks were ready to move on. Not only did they part ways with a generational talent, but they also didn’t shop him around to other teams for the best possible deal.
Mavericks’ general manager, Nico Harrison, struck a deal directly with Los Angeles Lakers’ Rob Pelinka. The final trade saw Doncic, Maxi Kleber, and Markieff Morris go to the Lakers in exchange for Anthony Davis, Max Christie, and a 2029 first-round pick.
The Utah Jazz also got involved, helping to complete the deal by acquiring Jalen Hood-Schifino, a 2025 second-round pick from the Los Angeles Clippers, and another second-round pick from Dallas.
After the trade, Mavericks owner Patrick Dumont explained that the move was meant to strengthen the team for the future.
“We’ve got Kyrie Irving, Klay Thompson, PJ Washington, Anthony Davis, and either Daniel Gafford or Dereck Lively. That’s going to scare a lot of teams,” Dumont said.
However, many Mavericks fans are furious with the decision. They took to social media to express their anger.
One fan wrote, “Omg how does that accomplish that?? Luka lives rent free in their heads.”
Another fan commented, “Dallas thinking Kyrie is locked in like he won’t see a hawk fly in a perfect circle and take it as a sign to request a trade to Portland.”
One fan added, “Nothing like being 3 games away from winning a title and burning the team to the ground.”
Another upset fan said, “Patrick, just sell the team. You aren’t convincing Dallas fans trading Luka was a good thing. Ever.”
It’s clear that the decision to trade Doncic has not been well received by Mavericks fans.
