The Dallas Mavericks’ decision to trade star player Luka Dončić to the Los Angeles Lakers in February ignited a firestorm of controversy and discontent among Dallas fans. During Dončić’s recent return to Dallas, where he led the Lakers to a 112-97 victory with a stellar 45-point performance, the crowd made their disappointment known.
Fans Aren’t Happy About Luka Deal
Throughout the game, chants of “Fire Nico” filled the American Airlines Center, targeting Mavericks‘ general manager Nico Harrison, who orchestrated the controversial trade. Former majority owner Mavericks Mark Cuban, who was at the game, appeared visibly distressed by the crowd’s vocal protests. Cuban was seen burying his face in his hands and shaking his head in response to the chants.
Mark Cuban was the majority owner of the Dallas Mavericks from 2000 to 2023, when he sold a 73 percent stake. He still maintains a minority stake (27 percent) and remains involved with the team, serving as the alternate governor and overseeing basketball operations. Cuban had initially purchased the team for $285 million, but he claims to have lost “hundreds of millions of dollars” during his time as owner, according to The New York Times.
The trade of Dončić to the Lakers did not involve cash changing hands. It was a multi-player deal with the primary figures being Anthony Davis going to the Mavericks in return for Dončić, who had been in line for a potential five-year, $345 million supermax contract extension with the Mavericks. The trade, which Dončić did not want or seek, potentially cost him $115 million, according to Sports Illustrated, because the most he can sign for now is $229 million over four years.
The discontent among Mavericks fans has manifested in various forms, including protests outside the arena and confrontations during games. In previous incidents, fans displaying “Fire Nico” signs and chanting slogans were ejected from the arena. Cuban himself has engaged directly with disgruntled fans.
The trade’s aftermath has been challenging for the Mavericks. Davis, acquired in exchange for Dončić, repeatedly has been sidelined due injury, limiting his contributions to the team. Meanwhile, Dončić has thrived with the Lakers.
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