Dallas Mavericks general manager Nico Harrison said Tuesday that he doesn't regret trading Luka Doncic to the Los Angeles Lakers even though Mavericks fans hate him and franchise legend Dirk Nowitzki didn't agree with the move.
Harrison said his "obligation" is to improve the Mavericks.
"My obligation is to the Dallas Mavericks," Harrison said, via DLLS. "It's what's the best interest of the Dallas Mavericks, and that's the most important thing. Some of those decisions are going to be unpopular maybe to Dirk and maybe to the fans, but my obligation is to the Dallas Mavericks."
Former Mavericks owner Mark Cuban saw Harrison's quote on "X" and issued a clear message to his followers. It was a strong, long message from Cuban.
"Dirk is the Dallas Mavericks," Cuban said. "Then, now and forever. No one should ever forget that. That statue will be here forever. Loyalty never fades away. Tomorrow night 15 guys will put on a Mavericks uniform. They will do everything they can to win. For themselves, each other and THE FANS. Our squad has busted their ass to fight through incredible adversity. They have my respect and support, should have everyone's.
"I am a Mavs fan. I will always love and cheer for everyone who puts on our uniform. Tomorrow night and how ever many games we have left this season and in every future season, whether I'm in the stands, in front of the TV, or following every play online, my heart and soul is committed to rooting for the Mavs to win. That will never change. I know fans are upset. But don't be upset at the players. Support them. Root for them. Rally behind them. MFFL stands for Mavs Fan FOR LIFE."
The Mavericks face the Sacramento Kings on Wednesday in the 9-10 play-in game. Dallas has to win two play-in games to make the 2025 playoffs.
Meanwhile, Doncic and the Lakers are the third seed in the West.
