Mavericks owner backs Doncic trade, says team isn’t relocating

Mavericks owner Patrick Dumont has acknowledged the fan’s frustration after a shocking trade that sent superstar Luka Doncic to the Los Angeles Lakers. In an unbelievable move, the Mavericks decided to trade the Slovenian with Anthony Davis.

Since then, the Mavericks fans have been protesting, calling for Nico Harrison, who is the president of basketball operations and general manager of the Dallas Mavericks, to be sacked. 

Dumont said the team would not relocate from Dallas after fans’ protest.

“I clearly understand that, and I really appreciate that,” Dumont said on Dallas Morning News about the fans’ reaction to the blockbuster deal. “I’m a big Luka fan. My family are big Luka fans. I have a really deep appreciation for what he brought to this team, what he brought to Dallas, and the excitement he brings. He’s an electrifying player.

“I want you to know I really sympathize with all of our fans who feel hurt. Look, as far as I’m concerned, Luka is a Mav for life, and I really wish him nothing but happiness and success in his career as he continues in L.A.”

“The Dallas Mavericks are not moving to Las Vegas,” Dumont said. “There is no question in that. That is the answer, unequivocally. The Dallas Mavericks are the Dallas Mavericks, and they will be in Dallas.”

Dumont wants the team to stay focused to get the desired result. The franchise had made it to the NBA finals in the previous season and Doncic had played a key role in their run.

“In my mind, the way teams win is by focus, by having the right character, by having the right culture, and having the right dedication to work as hard as possible to create a championship-winning outcome,” Dumont told the Morning News. “And if you’re not doing that, you’re going to lose.”

Dallas Mavericks will next take on the Sacramento Kings on Monday.