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Lakers Player Traded by Nico Harrison Reacts to His Firing

Originally posted on Athlon Sports | By Rodney Knuppel | Last updated Nov 12, 2025 2:14 PM ET

“It’s a fast business, man.” That was Maxi Kleber’s response when asked about the Dallas Mavericks’ decision to fire general manager Nico Harrison this week. The move came just months after Harrison pulled off one of the biggest trades of the offseason, sending Luka Doncic, Kleber, and Markieff Morris to the Los Angeles Lakers in a blockbuster deal that stunned the league.

Nico Harrison’s Sudden Exit

Harrison’s firing came as a surprise around the NBA. He had spent four seasons leading the Mavericks’ front office, guiding them through roster changes and helping bring Kyrie Irving to Dallas in 2023. But after a slow start to the 2025-26 season and ongoing struggles with team chemistry, the Mavericks’ ownership decided it was time for a new direction.

Kleber, now in Los Angeles, didn’t seem bitter when asked about his former GM’s exit but noted the unpredictable nature of the NBA. “He believed in me for years, and he made some bold moves,” Kleber said. “But this league moves quick.”

“It’s a fast business, man.” Former Dallas Mavericks player Maxi Kleber reacts to Nico Harrison’s dismissal in Dallas. pic.twitter.com/QIEWaAKw1B
— Dave McMenamin (@mcten) November 12, 2025

Inside The Luka Trade

The Mavericks’ decision to trade Luka Doncic to the Lakers shocked fans across the league. Los Angeles sent a 2029 first-round pick, along with Anthony Davis and Max Christie, in exchange for Doncic, Kleber, and Morris. The move paired Luka with LeBron James, forming one of the most star-studded duos in recent memory. Los Angeles lost in the first round of the playoffs to Minnesota with the combination.

So far, the Lakers have benefited from his first full season in Los Angeles. They are 8-3. Doncic is averaging 37.1 points per game. James has yet to play with an injury, but his connection with Austin Reaves and Deandre Ayton has been strong so far. Kleber has played in just one game this season, playing 14 minutes off the bench.

Los Angeles Lakers guard Luka Doncic (77).© Mark J. Rebilas-Imagn Images

Mavericks Trying To Regroup

Dallas, meanwhile, has struggled to find its rhythm without its former superstar. After missing the postseason a year ago, they are 3-8 this season. Head coach Jason Kidd has rookie Cooper Flagg playing point Guard with the injury to Kyrie Irving. Anthony Davis also continues to miss time for Dallas. He has played just five games thus far. Flagg and P.J. Washington are the lone Mavericks players to start all 11 games.

Harrison was fired as the general manager on Tuesday. He was in his fifth season. Michael Finley and Matt Riccardi are filling in as interim replacements.

For Kleber, the situation is a reminder to all around the league of how quickly things can change in the NBA. “One week you’re building something, the next week it’s a new chapter,” he said. “That’s the business.”

This article first appeared on Athlon Sports and was syndicated with permission.

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