Mavericks GM Caught Giving Misleading Statements About Luka Dončić Just Weeks Before Trade
Dallas Mavericks General Manager Nico Harrison is facing backlash after trading Luka Dončić to the Los Angeles Lakers—just two weeks after publicly praising the star and expressing confidence in building a championship team around him.
A resurfaced interview with RTV Slovenija reveals that Harrison had high praise for Dončić, calling his value to the franchise and the NBA “immeasurable.” When asked if making Dončić an NBA champion was a tough challenge or an honor, he responded: “I feel like we’re going to be champions, and it will be because of Luka. So, I’ll be honored to deliver that championship.”
Despite these statements, reports indicate that Harrison and Lakers GM Rob Pelinka had been secretly discussing a trade for weeks. In fact, Pelinka was reportedly stunned when Harrison first offered Dončić, assuming it was a joke.
The trade itself has sparked controversy, with the Mavericks receiving Anthony Davis, Max Christie, and an unprotected 2029 first-round pick in return. While Davis is an elite defender, many believe the Mavericks should have demanded far more for a player of Dončić’s caliber.
Harrison later justified the trade by claiming that “defense wins championships,” suggesting that Davis gives Dallas a better shot at winning. However, given Dončić’s commitment to the team and the lack of other trade negotiations, critics argue that this move was both unnecessary and a massive misstep.
Now, fans and analysts alike are left questioning the Mavericks’ long-term vision—especially after Harrison’s earlier claims about Dončić being the key to their future success.
