Dallas Mavericks general manager Nico Harrison had a clear vision after making the controversial decision to trade Luka Doncic. Despite facing backlash and protests, he remained steadfast in his choice. According to The Athletic, he addressed the team the next morning in Cleveland before their game against the Cavaliers.
“Harrison told the bleary-eyed group that the team’s goal remained the same: Win a championship,” the report stated. “Privately and publicly, Harrison has said he moved Dončić for (Anthony) Davis because he felt it gave Dallas the best chance at raising the Larry O’Brien trophy. Harrison’s belief is that Davis is a better cultural fit for what the Mavericks want to build.”
A major factor in Harrison’s decision was Doncic’s health. He had missed a significant number of games this season, but there were also concerns about his attitude—specifically, his frequent complaints to officials. Still, trading away the franchise’s cornerstone player came as a shock.
Harrison, however, remains convinced that acquiring Davis was the right move, even though the new Mavericks star has been dealing with an injury. Fortunately for Dallas, a recent update confirmed that Davis won’t require surgery, though there’s no clear timeline for his return.
Did Harrison Believe Doncic Couldn’t Lead the Mavericks?
Doncic’s achievements speak for themselves—five straight All-NBA First Team selections, a scoring title last season, and leading Dallas to the NBA Finals. Yet, Harrison believed their championship window was too short with him. This is an interesting stance, given the age difference and playing styles of Doncic and Davis.
Doncic is an elite perimeter player with exceptional pick-and-roll execution, basketball IQ, and playmaking ability. Davis, on the other hand, offers defensive dominance, rim protection, and rebounding, earning him numerous All-NBA and All-Defensive honors.
For the Mavericks, this trade will only be seen as a success if it results in championships. Otherwise, the decision to move on from Doncic could lead to long-term regret.
