Dallas Mavericks Fire GM Nico Harrison After Luka Doncic Trade Fallout

The Dallas Mavericks have officially fired general manager Nico Harrison, a decision confirmed by team governor Patrick Dumont. This move comes just nine months after Harrison orchestrated a controversial trade that sent star player Luka Doncic to the Los Angeles Lakers.

According to The Guardian, Dumont stated that this decision reflects a commitment to building a championship-caliber organization, one that delivers for players, partners, and fans. The Mavericks have struggled this season, posting a disappointing 3-8 record, which has led to significant organizational scrutiny.

Harrison's exit follows a tumultuous period that began with the Doncic trade, which has been widely criticized by fans and commentators alike. In an open letter to fans, Dumont acknowledged the 'profound impact' of these difficult months and expressed a commitment to returning winning basketball to Dallas.

The team has named Michael Finley and Matt Riccardi as co-interim general managers while a search for a permanent replacement begins. Harrison, who was also the president of basketball operations, had previously been celebrated for leading the Mavericks to the Western Conference Finals in his first year, but his reputation took a hit following the trade.

Deadspin notes that Harrison accepted responsibility for the trade, citing concerns about Doncic's physique and commitment to conditioning, which did not sit well with the fanbase. The trade occurred on February 2, 2025, after Doncic played his final game for the Mavericks on Christmas Day 2024, where he suffered a calf strain.

The Mavericks were 19-10 at that juncture but struggled afterward, finishing the season 13-20 without Doncic and failing to make the playoffs. Meanwhile, Doncic has thrived with the Lakers, averaging over 37 points and nine assists per game, helping Los Angeles to an 8-3 record early in the season, as reported by Al Jazeera.

The backlash against Harrison intensified during a recent home game against the Milwaukee Bucks, where fans were heard chanting 'Fire Nico!' as the Mavericks squandered a 13-point lead. The situation escalated when Dumont was seen conversing with a fan wearing a Lakers Doncic jersey amidst this unfolding drama.

The Mavericks' struggles have been compounded by injuries, particularly to Anthony Davis, the centerpiece of the return from the Lakers, who has been sidelined with a calf strain after a brief appearance in Dallas.

As the Mavericks navigate this tumultuous period, the organization faces critical questions about their future direction and the path toward rebuilding a competitive roster. The future remains uncertain, but the immediate change in leadership signals a clear response to the fanbase's frustrations and the need for a shift in strategy moving forward.