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Nico Harrison Makes Unexpected Luka Doncic Admission on Monday

Originally posted on Athlon Sports | By Ayomide Adeduyite | Last updated Apr 21, 2025 2:35 PM ET

When the Dallas Mavericks traded Luka Doncic to the Los Angeles Lakers in February, it sent shockwaves through the NBA. The blockbuster deal, which brought Anthony Davis to Dallas, marked the end of an era for the Mavericks — and the beginning of one of the most scrutinized front office decisions in recent memory.

Doncic, a five-time All-Star and the face of the Mavericks franchise since 2018, was dealt in a bold move aimed at shaking up the team’s trajectory. In return, Dallas received Davis, a dominant big man with championship pedigree, but also a history of injuries.

What followed was a rollercoaster for both teams. Davis got off to a strong start in Dallas but missed significant time due to a groin injury in his debut, sidelining him for 18 games. The Mavericks slipped in the standings and were eventually eliminated in the play-in tournament despite Davis’ efforts to rescue the season late.

Meanwhile, Doncic flourished in Los Angeles. In 28 regular season games with the Lakers, he averaged 28.2 points, 8.1 rebounds, and 7.5 assists while shooting 43.8% from the field. He formed a lethal pairing with LeBron James and helped guide the Lakers into the playoffs, becoming an instant fan favorite in L.A.

On Monday, Mavericks GM Nico Harrison offered a surprising reflection on the decision and the backlash that followed.

"I did know Luka was important to the fan base," Harrison said, via All City's Tim Cato. "I didn't know quite to this level."

Nico Harrison on Luka Doncic, via @tim_cato:

"I did know Luka was important to the fan base. I didn't know quite to this level."
— Underdog NBA (@UnderdogNBA) April 21, 2025

Harrison’s words have reignited debate among Mavericks fans who remain bitter over losing a generational talent. Since the trade, Dallas fans have consistently called for his dismissal, as they continue to question the logic behind trading away a superstar like Doncic, who led the team to the Finals last year.

As Dallas looks to regroup this offseason, Harrison's comments may linger as a reminder of how much Doncic meant — and still means — to the city he once called home.

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

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