In a sit-down interview with ESPN, Luka Dončić made his feelings clear regarding Mavs GM Nico Harrison’s constant comments about him.
The trade that sent Luka Dončić to Los Angeles and Anthony Davis to Dallas may have been months ago, but it will be discussed for years and years.
The trade not only shocked the basketball world but also changed the future of two franchises forever.
While the Lakers have done everything to show their appreciation for Anthony Davis and Max Christie for their time in Los Angeles, it has been the opposite for Dallas.
It feels that at every opportunity, Dallas general manager Nico Harrison has thrown dirt on Luka’s name in an attempt to justify and explain his rationale for pulling off the deal.
As the postseason begins, Luka sat down with Malika Andrews of ESPN and shared his thoughts on Harrison’s negative comments about his game.
“I mean, it’s painful. Depends on how you want take it. Mostly, it came from Dallas, so I just didn’t want to talk back. But I don’t really read that much stuff. I’m just trying to focus on my journey.”
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“It’s just sad just the way he’s talking right now. I never say anything bad about him and I just want to move…It’s time for me to move on from that.”
It’s certainly sad that Harrison can’t find a way just to mention that the franchise is moving in another direction and make sure he gives Luka his flowers in the process. Instead, it’s been shade about his defense and leaks about his weight and commitment to his profession.
This has been a PR disasterclass by all involved with the Mavericks organization. Even months later, Harrison can’t correct his course and give him some love without mixing it with hate.
As Luka said, it is time to move on, and regardless of how difficult that has been, he hasn’t let it affect his on-court production.
As a Laker, he’s averaging 28.2 points, 8.1 rebounds, and 7.5 assists per game. In his return to Dallas, just moments after crying while watching his tribute video, Luka got up and dropped 45 on his former team.
Now, the Mavericks’ season is done, and the Lakers have home court in their opening round contest against the Wolves.
So, Harrison can say “defense wins championships” until the cows come home, but Luka might be the one hoisting a trophy long before Dallas sees one again.
You can follow Edwin on Twitter at @ECreates88 or on Bluesky at @ecreates88.bsky.social.