The fallout from the Luka Doncic trade has been one of the defining storylines of the Dallas Mavericks‘ season, but on Tuesday, general manager Nico Harrison stirred further controversy by taking an unexpected shot at franchise icon Dirk Nowitzki.
Speaking to local Dallas media in a roundtable discussion, Harrison justified his decision to trade Doncic, reiterating that his priority was what he believed to be best for the Mavericks. However, his comments raised eyebrows when he suggested that even Nowitzki, widely regarded as the greatest player in franchise history, may not approve of certain decisions.
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“My obligation is to the Dallas Mavericks. It’s what’s in the best interest of the Dallas Mavericks, and that’s the most important thing,” Harrison said. “Some of those decisions are going to be unpopular, maybe to Dirk and maybe to the fans, but my obligation is to the Dallas Mavericks.”
The response from Mavericks faithful was swift and unforgiving. Fans, still reeling from the loss of Doncic, saw Harrison’s remarks as dismissive of the deep connection Nowitzki has with the franchise and city.
A familiar face raised his voice
Minority owner Mark Cuban wasted no time stepping in to defend Nowitzki, taking to X/Twitter to reaffirm the legendary player’s standing within the organization. “Dirk is the Dallas Mavericks. Then, now, and forever. No one should ever forget that. That statue will be here forever. Loyalty never fades away,” Cuban posted. Cuban continued with a passionate rallying cry, urging fans to support the team ahead of its Play-In Tournament game against the Sacramento Kings.
“Our squad has busted their ass to fight through incredible adversity. They have my respect and support, and should have everyone’s. I know fans are upset. But don’t be upset at the players. Support them. Root for them. Rally behind them.”
Despite Cuban’s efforts to mend the divide, the pain of Doncic’s departure still lingers. Fans believe he should have remained in Dallas long enough to eventually have a statue alongside Nowitzki’s. Instead, the front office’s handling of his exit, and Harrison’s dismissive comments, have only intensified frustrations.
As the Mavericks gear up for the postseason, the tension between management and the fanbase remains undeniable. Whether Harrison’s vision for the future will ultimately pay off or further damage the franchise’s identity is a question that will unfold in the years to come.
