Dallas Mavericks GM Nico Harrison had been threatened with death after trading former franchise star Luka Dončić to the Los Angeles Lakers.
As reported by ESPN’s Tim MacMahon, the unfortunate circumstances have compelled the Mavericks to enhance security for their initial home game following the significant trade.
“This fanbase is deeply heartbroken, and there have been regrettable developments concerning that frustration,” MacMahon stated on “NBA Today” on Friday, Feb. 7, as the Mavericks prepare to play their first home game — against their in-state rivals, the Houston Rockets, on Saturday, Feb. 8 — following Doncic’s trade. Nico Harrison has received threats on his life. Some of those have contained racial slurs.
“Of course, security will be strengthened.” There will be demonstrations outside the venue in the morning. Those are scheduled. Security will definitely be enhanced. Nico Harrison will not occupy his usual spot in the stands. There is no justification for putting him at that type of security risk.
In an unprecedented move in NBA history, the Mavericks unexpectedly traded Doncic, a five-time All-Star and All-NBA player, to the Lakers for 10-time All-Star Anthony Davis, Max Christie, and a 2029 first-round draft pick, last week.
“Thus, that has certainly been an unfortunate aspect of this entire narrative.” Clearly, the fans’ frustration—certainly, they are justified in feeling as if a generational talent has been taken from them—but obviously, boundaries have been overstepped.
The Fallout Between Luka Dončić and the Mavericks Front Office
Harrison somewhat clarified the reasoning behind his surprising choice to exchange the five-time All-Star and All-NBA player who had just guided them to the NBA Finals last year.
“One thing about me is that I won’t speak negatively about any players, as that won’t benefit us or myself,” Harrison told reporters at his Sunday press conference. “I’ll simply state that there are different levels to it.” Some individuals align with the culture, while others enter and enhance it. Those are two separate matters. I think the newcomers are contributing to the culture.
Reading between the lines, it was clear Harrison no longer regarded Dončić as a cultural fit, but rather as the embodiment of it.
Luka Doncic’s Dad Criticizes Mavericks’ ‘Hypocrisy’
Saša Dončić, Luka’s dad, expressed his frustrations about the Mavericks during an interview with Arena Sport Slovenija on Sunday, Feb. 2.
“I recognize that a time may arrive when you have a different view on a particular philosophy,” Saša remarked. “If you have issues with this or that player, that’s fine, I understand.” However, I believe that this very secrecy, or perhaps I should refer to it as hypocrisy from certain individuals, affects me personally.
Harrison informed The Dallas Morning News that Luka did not respond to his call following the trade.
Harrison stated, “I suspect he likely doesn’t wish to converse with me.”
The Dončić family sensed treachery.
“Since I believe that Luka truly doesn’t deserve this,” Saša stated. “Considering that, to my knowledge, he made great sacrifices and now there are tales emerging that someone wishes to apologize for their actions.” I believe this seems quite unjust from certain people since I am aware that Luka held a great deal of respect for Dallas. He honored the entire city and aided children.”
Sasa rejected the speculation regarding his son’s inadequate conditioning that surfaced after the trade.
“It wasn’t an issue last year because, I repeat, one person claimed he’s not fit enough,” Sasa stated. “That he participated in, I can’t say, 100 matches, nearly 40 minutes with two or three players consistently defending him.” That he was hurt and you make such comments about him. I believe this is quite unjust from specific individuals. You made the trade, own your decisions, but avoid seeking excuses or justifications, that’s all.