In a private, invite-only meeting with local media, Mavericks GM Nico Harrison said he has no regrets about trading Luka Doncic and called it the best move for the team's future.
Dallas Mavericks General Manager Nico Harrison and team CEO Rick Welts spoke to the media on Monday in a private roundtable — their first public comments since trading Luka Doncic to the Los Angeles Lakers.
The session was held with selected Dallas media members. It was invite-only, and cameras or audio recording were not allowed. This marked Harrison's first meeting with local reporters since the blockbuster deal.
In this meeting, Harrison made it clear he stands by the decision.
"There's no regrets on the trade," he said via ESPN. ""Part of my job is to do the best thing for the Mavericks, not only today, but also in the future, and some of the decisions I'm going to make are going to be unpopular. That's my job, and I have to stand by it."
While he acknowledged Luka's immense talent, Harrison emphasized that the move was about the team's future. He reiterated that the post-trade roster — once fully healthy — has the potential to be a championship contender.
"We believe in the move we made," Harrison stated. "You obviously don't, and that's fine. You're entitled to your opinions, but we're excited. ... I think once we win, then that will change your mind."
According to ESPN, "Defense wins championships" was the phrase most often used at Harrison's private meeting with the media.
Per the same report, Welts echoed the optimism, saying he remains confident in the franchise's direction.
Meanwhile, the Mavs face a do-or-die Play-In game on the road against the Sacramento Kings on Wednesday night.
Thank you for being with us! Subscribe to BN+ and browse ad-free.
Dallas Mavericks
Los Angeles Lakers
Toronto Raptors
Memphis Grizzlies
Sacramento Kings