Luka Doncic broke his silence about the Mavericks’ firing of general manager Nico Harrison, who orchestrated the blockbuster deal sending him to the Lakers nine months prior.

Rather than focus on Harrison or the tumultuous front office, Doncic expressed gratitude for his time in Dallas, saying, “The city of Dallas, the players, fans, they will always have a special place in my heart… But I didn’t. It will always be a special place for me. Always have to call it home. Right now I am focused on the Lakers. Trying to move on.”​

While Doncic declined to make direct comments on Harrison’s fate, his remarks signaled respect for the franchise and an eagerness to write a new chapter with the Lakers. That gracious tone has set Doncic apart as he continues to excel on the court, leading LA to an impressive 8–4 start in the absence of LeBron James, while the Mavericks have struggled in his absence.

Harrison’s Legacy Tied to Doncic Trade

Nico Harrison’s firing came on the heels of widespread criticism from Dallas fans and analysts, who have spent months lamenting the decision to trade away a generational superstar.

Following the February deal, team governor Patrick Dumont issued public statements acknowledging a disappointing season and asserting responsibility for the midseason shake-up. The move, once hailed as bold, has been widely panned with the Mavericks free-falling to a 16-29 record since Doncic’s exit.​

Within the front office, reports suggest alignment on the trade decision, but results on the court failed to justify the gamble. Recent departures and instability compounded Harrison’s tenure, culminating in this week’s front-office reset.

Despite the ordeal, Doncic’s maintained distance from the drama, focusing his energy on thriving in Los Angeles, a contrast to the Mavericks’ ongoing struggles.​

Doncic’s Lakers Renaissance

Doncic’s transition to the Lakers has been marked by revitalized leadership and individual dominance. Shedding over 30 pounds in the offseason and improving his conditioning, Doncic is averaging over 37 points per game, nearly a triple-double, and anchoring the Lakers’ offense amid injuries.

His performance stands in stark contrast to Dallas’ injury-riddled and chemistry-challenged roster, now facing the consequences of a failed star trade.​

The aftermath of Harrison’s firing and Doncic’s departure underscores the impact one bold move can have on a franchise’s trajectory. As the league watches Dallas recover and Los Angeles rise, Doncic stays committed to moving forward, “focused on what we’re doing here” as the Lakers make their postseason push.