Death Threats, Racist Comments Force Mavericks to Act After Luka Dončić Trade
Dallas Mavericks general manager Nico Harrison has been the target of death threats since trading franchise player Luka Dončić to the Los Angeles Lakers.
ESPN’s Tim MacMahon reported that these disturbing events have prompted the Mavericks to increase security for their first home game since the significant trade. “This fanbase is heartbroken, and there have been some very troubling consequences of their anger,” MacMahon shared on “NBA Today” on February 7. The Mavericks’ first home game since the trade will be against the Houston Rockets on February 8. “Nico Harrison has received death threats, some containing racial slurs.”
“Security will be significantly heightened, with protests planned outside the arena. Nico Harrison won’t be in his usual seat; it’s important to ensure his safety,” MacMahon added.
In what was considered one of the most shocking trades in NBA history, the Mavericks traded Dončić, a five-time All-Star, to the Lakers for 10-time All-Star Anthony Davis, Max Christie, and a 2029 first-round pick.
“This is certainly an unfortunate part of the situation,” MacMahon said. “Fans have every right to be upset about losing a generational talent, but some actions have gone too far.”
The Luka Dončić-Mavericks Front Office Fallout
Harrison briefly addressed his surprising decision to trade Dončić, stating that he wouldn’t speak ill of any player. “I’m not going to speak negatively about any players. That doesn’t benefit anyone,” Harrison explained during a Sunday press conference. “I’ll say there are people who fit the culture and people who contribute to it, and those are two different things. The new additions will contribute to the culture.”
While not directly criticizing Dončić, it became clear that Harrison no longer saw him as the right fit for the team’s culture.
Luka Doncic’s Father Criticizes Mavericks’ Actions
In an interview with Arena Sport Slovenija on February 2, Luka’s father, Saša Dončić, expressed his anger at the Mavericks’ handling of the situation.
“I understand disagreements, but the secrecy and hypocrisy around this situation hurt me deeply,” Saša remarked.
Harrison revealed that Luka had not returned his calls after the trade. “I suspect he doesn’t want to speak to me,” Harrison said.
Saša felt betrayed by the move. “Luka didn’t deserve this. He gave so much to this team, and now they’re putting out rumors that he wants to apologize for something. It’s unfair.”
Saša also refuted claims that Luka’s conditioning was an issue before the trade. “This wasn’t a problem last year,” he said. “Luka played through injuries, with constant pressure from defenders. To claim otherwise is unjust. They traded him, but they should own their decision instead of making excuses.”