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When Luka joined the Mavericks, no one knew he would make Dallas his home. But how did he come here? It was Mark Cuban’s call, just 15 minutes before the Mavericks’ 2018 draft pick, that completely changed the scenario in Dallas. Instead of Trae Young, they secured Luka Doncic, and the rest is history. But when the franchise eventually decided to move on from the Slovenian star, Cuban wasn’t given the courtesy of a heads-up. Why would he? He was no longer the majority owner. If that doesn’t paint a clear picture of his relationship with the Mavs GM, Cuban himself shed light on it.

During an exclusive interview with WFAA, host Jonah Javad asked Cuban whether he was consulted about the trade. “I haven’t talked to Nico about it. I’ve said hi to him once or twice after the trade,” the former Shark Tank investor candidly replied. This clearly shows that Nico Harrison didn’t involve Cuban in the decision-making process. While there may not be any rift between them, Cuban’s input, after being the majority owner of the franchise for over two decades, could have been valuable. But again, he was no longer in that position.

In December 2023, Cuban sold his 72.3% stake to the Adelson family, stepping out of the driver’s seat and into the passenger’s side when it comes to team decisions. He was told that some fans were upset with him for making this decision. Had he still been in power, the fans believed he would have never allowed Doncic to be traded.

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As much as Mark Cuban felt honored about the sentiment, there was something he pointed out, “Father time’s undefeated. Nobody plays forever. So you go through adjustments. Hopefully, Nico and Patrick have a plan, and they’ll make it work.” But is there even a slim chance of a possible return to ownership in the future? “I mean if someone makes me a deal but unlikely,” Cuban stated.

Although Mark Cuban believes that Nico Harrison and majority owner Patrick Dumont will have a plan up their sleeves, it’s definite that the plan is falling apart. And Dallas supporters are starting to raise their voices in protest again.

Dallas nation shows more disrespect to Nico Harrison

When the news of Luka Doncic’s trade to the Lakers became official, Dallas was in chaos. Fans flooded the streets, and some chose social media to unleash their anger at the GM. It had gotten so intense that the Mavs were forced to increase security. But no amount of protest could reverse the decision. In just a month, the franchise lost a massive chunk of its fanbase and, unfortunately, a number of its star players. Kyrie Irving’s season ended with an Achilles injury, and most of their starting lineup has found themselves on the injury list. The fans had had enough of it.

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So, they spilled their frustrations yesterday at a Dallas Stars game against the Calgary Flames. Like the Mavs, the hockey team also plays at the American Airlines Center. In the middle of the game, fans were spotted chanting “Fire Nico.”

What’s your perspective on:

Did the Mavericks lose their soul with Luka's trade, or is there hope for a comeback?

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The situation cannot be brought under control now. It seems the fans won’t back down until GM Harrison delivers a championship, which is unlikely this season. But the franchise needs to act up before it’s too late.

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Did the Mavericks lose their soul with Luka's trade, or is there hope for a comeback?

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