Dallas Mavericks owner Patrick Dumont has stood firmly behind the team’s decision to trade Luka Doncic, hinting that the former franchise cornerstone did not meet the organization’s work ethic standards. In an interview with Brad Townsend of Dallas Morning News, Dumont referenced NBA legends while emphasizing the importance of relentless dedication.
“If you look at the greats in the league—[Michael] Jordan, [Larry] Bird, Kobe [Bryant], Shaq [O’Neal]—they worked really hard, every day, with a singular focus to win,” Dumont said. He added that players who do not share that mindset “shouldn’t be part of the Dallas Mavericks.”
Doncic was unexpectedly traded to the Los Angeles Lakers on February 2 in a blockbuster deal that sent Anthony Davis, Max Christie, and a 2029 first-round pick to Dallas. The Lakers also moved Jalen Hood-Schifino and two second-round picks to the Utah Jazz as part of the three-team trade.
The move sparked widespread criticism, as Doncic, a perennial All-NBA selection, was considered the Mavericks’ franchise player. However, Dumont and general manager Nico Harrison defended the trade, with Harrison stating, “I believe that defense wins championships.”
Doncic was reportedly blindsided by the deal and was not informed until it was finalized. Former NBA player Chandler Parsons revealed that the star guard had purchased a $15 million house in Dallas just a week before the trade.
Dumont’s comments add further context to why the Mavericks moved on from Doncic. While he did not name the Slovenian directly, his remarks suggested that the team questioned Doncic’s commitment to conditioning and leadership.
The trade was historic, marking the first time two reigning All-NBA players were swapped midseason. The Mavericks, currently eighth in the West, took a defensive-minded approach with Davis, while the Lakers bet on Doncic’s elite offensive talent.
Despite dealing with a lingering calf strain, Doncic could make his Lakers debut tonight against the Utah Jazz. Before the trade, he was averaging 28.1 points, 8.3 rebounds, and 7.8 assists per game for Dallas.
