Nico Harrison, Luka Doncic, (Los Angeles Lakers), Anthony Davis (Dallas Mavericks)
April 2025
Mavericks GM Nico Harrison doubled down on his controversial decision to trade franchise star Luka Doncic to the Lakers in exchange for Anthony Davis, citing a long-term philosophy that “defense wins championships.”
The move, made without consulting Doncic, Mark Cuban, or Dirk Nowitzki, has been met with fan outrage and criticism. Harrison believes Davis and Irving form a “championship-caliber” core, despite injuries derailing a 39–43 season. He remains confident the team’s new defensive identity will win back trust.