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Mavericks rumors: How much money Dallas will lose from Luka Doncic trade

Originally posted on NBA on ClutchPoints
By Julian Ojeda | Last updated Apr 9, 2025 12:01 PM ET

The Dallas Mavericks are set to host the Los Angeles Lakers on Wednesday night in one of the most anticipated matchups of the season. The 7:30 p.m. ET game will mark Luka Doncic’s first return to Dallas since being traded to Los Angeles on February 2 in exchange for Anthony Davis. While the on-court stakes are high, the financial implications for the Mavericks have come under renewed scrutiny.

According to ESPN’s Tim MacMahon, the Mavericks are expected to face a substantial financial hit following the trade. Team sources told ESPN that the organization could lose nine figures over the next several years. This season alone, the Mavericks are projected to lose tens of millions in revenue due to declining attendance, steep drops in merchandise sales, and sponsors choosing to cut ties with the team in the wake of Doncic’s departure.

The impact was immediate. MacMahon noted that a significant number of fans canceled their season tickets in the days following the trade. In response, the franchise attempted to mend relations with the fanbase by offering limited refunds in an effort to restore goodwill.

Mavericks face on-court struggles and financial fallout post-Luka Doncic trade

Dallas Mavericks forward Anthony Davis (3) looks on during the second half against the Los Angeles Clippers at Intuit Dome. Kiyoshi Mio-Imagn Images

Despite acquiring another All-NBA talent in Davis, the Mavericks have struggled both competitively and commercially. Since the deal, Dallas has posted a 12-18 record and fallen to 10th in the Western Conference standings with a 38-41 mark. Injuries and inconsistency have plagued the team’s performance, further complicating the transition.

Davis has recently returned from a left adductor strain and has averaged 19.7 points, 8.5 rebounds, 2.8 assists, and 1.5 blocks per game on 43.7% shooting in his seven appearances with the Mavericks. Dallas is 5-2 in games he has played.

Speaking to reporters after practice on Tuesday, Davis downplayed any personal significance attached to Wednesday’s game despite having spent four seasons with the Lakers and winning a title during the 2019-20 season.

“Just another game,” Davis said. “Y’all make it bigger than it needs to be. Another game for me. It will be Luka’s first time back, so there might be a lot of emotions for him back in Dallas. But for me it’s another game.”

The Mavericks’ decision to trade one of the most popular and productive players in franchise history has triggered long-term ramifications beyond the basketball court. While the front office hoped the deal would help reset the team and remain competitive, the early financial and on-court consequences suggest the organization may be facing an uphill climb.

This article first appeared on NBA on ClutchPoints and was syndicated with permission.

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