Lakers star Luka Doncic's latest Dirk Nowitzki statement has Mavericks fans sad again

Nowitzki and Doncic have a very tight relationship, as Nowitzki's last year in the NBA was Doncic's first. It was a perfect passing of the torch until Nico Harrison rained on that parade.

Dirk Nowitzki has been steadfast in his support of Doncic since the trade, though, attending Doncic's first game as a Laker in Los Angeles, saying numerous times how surprised he was, and his fractured relationship with the Mavericks (more on this later) is, in part, due to this trade. And when you upset the greatest player in franchise history, one so beloved by the fanbase, that's asking for trouble.

Many people, including the players, thought Doncic would have a statue next to Dirk Nowitzki's outside, have a banner hanging next to Nowitzki's in the arena, and many more things that come with being one of the greatest players in franchise history.

Doncic does already have a good post fadeaway in his bag, but Nowitzki's was unique because of how high his shot release was. He could get that shot off in a phone booth and it still be a good shot because of how much space he could create on it. Doncic's release isn't that high, but he's able to use his size and strengh to create space against just about anyone.

Dirk Nowitzki's Fractured Relationship With the Mavericks

Although everyone recognizes Nowitzki as the torch-bearer of the franchise, he has mixed feelings now about the organization he spent 21 years with. While the Doncic trade played a part in that, it's far from the only reason.

Nico Harrison forced out head athletic trainer Casey Smith a few years ago, who was a close friend of Nowitzki's and a major part of the team, while Smith was at home in the offseason attending to his ailing mother. Smith was one of the most highly-respected people in his profession, and it's no surprise the New York Knicks have been much healthier since he took over.

Nowitzki also rarely attends games anymore, doesn't go to his permanent office much, and seems to be displeased with the organization in general. The new ownership change likely didn't help matters, either.