Feb 10, 2025; Dallas, Texas, USA; Dallas Mavericks general manager Nico Harrison walks off the court before the game between the Dallas and the Sacramento Kings at the American Airlines Center. Mandatory Credit: Jerome Miron-Imagn Images Jerome Miron-Imagn Images

Mavericks unsuccessfully trying to change narrative around Luka Doncic-Lakers trade

Originally posted on Dallas Mavericks on SI
By Keenan Womack | Last updated Jul 30, 2025 6:10 PM ET

As if the Luka Doncic-Anthony Davis swap wasn't embarrassing enough, the way the franchise has handled the public relations since has been arguably worse. They continually trashed the superstar on the way out, leaking story after story about problems with his work ethic, his lack of physical fitness, and an attitude that the Mavericks brass perceived as non-competitive.

Of course, any rational basketball fan can see right through this smokescreen. Today, Marc J. Spears referenced that there are even more stories that Dallas has been sitting on that could further disparage the former Mavericks superstar who led them to their first NBA Finals appearance in 13 seasons in 2024.

"I think for Dallas... you heard a lot of negative things. There probably is a lot of stuff that they're not saying. There are stories that I've heard that they're not saying," said the journalist speaking on ESPN's NBA Today.

Marc Spears on Luka:

"I think for Dallas...you heard a lot of negative things. There probably is a lot of stuff that they're not saying. There are stories that I've heard that they're not saying" pic.twitter.com/qv0Jswt3up
— Oh No He Didn't (@ohnohedidnt24) July 29, 2025

Despite this report, it's clear that fans are tired of the smear campaign. Social media was rife with responses criticizing the franchise's constant attempts to justify its trade with the Lakers. Doncic, who will reportedly sign a four-year, $229 million extension with LA, has been the constant target of slander by this organization, to the embarrassment of many fans and media in the DFW area.

Doncic averaged 28.2 points, 8.1 rebounds, and 7.5 assists per game once being traded to LA last season, and has made headlines recently for his body transformation so drastic that it landed him on the cover of Men's Health Magazine. While the Mavericks continue to focus on their former superstar, dragging him at any opportunity, Doncic is looking forward to a new season with the Lakers, surrounded by an upgraded roster.

This article first appeared on Dallas Mavericks on SI and was syndicated with permission.

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