BREAKING: Nico Harrison Steps Down as Mavericks GM Amid Controversy Over Luka Dončić Trade
In a major development for the Dallas Mavericks, General Manager Nico Harrison has voluntarily resigned, following relentless public outrage over his decision to trade franchise star Luka Dončić to the Los Angeles Lakers. The February 2025 trade involved Dončić heading to L.A. in exchange for Anthony Davis, Max Christie, and a future first-round draft pick.
Dončić, a beloved figure in Dallas and the face of the franchise, had led the team to the NBA Finals just a year prior. The trade shocked fans and analysts, with many criticizing the move as shortsighted. Harrison attempted to justify the decision by highlighting the need to strengthen the team’s defense, but the backlash was swift and fierce.
Tensions boiled over when Dončić returned to Dallas in a Lakers uniform, dropping 45 points and leading his new team to a dominant 112–97 win. Mavericks fans, heartbroken and furious, loudly voiced their frustration by chanting “Fire Nico” throughout the game.
The aftermath of the trade has not been kind to the Mavericks. With Anthony Davis facing recurring injury issues and the team lacking cohesion, their season has taken a nosedive. Financially, the situation is just as grim—salary cap constraints and a depleted stockpile of draft picks have put the franchise in a difficult position for the foreseeable future.
Harrison’s resignation ends a rollercoaster tenure that began with promise when he was hired in 2021. Initially praised for reinvigorating the Mavericks and building a competitive team, his controversial decisions—particularly the Dončić trade—ultimately overshadowed his achievements.
Now, the Mavericks are at a crossroads. As they look to appoint a new GM, they also face the challenge of rebuilding the roster, regaining fan trust, and re-establishing their place as a contender in the Western Conference. The next steps will be crucial in determining whether Dallas can recover from one of the most polarizing moves in recent NBA history.