Dallas Mavericks legend Dirk Nowitzki has opened up about Luka Doncic’s stunning midseason trade to the Los Angeles Lakers, calling it one of the most difficult moves in franchise history.
Speaking with Steve Nash, Nowitzki admitted he was caught off guard by the news. “Nobody knew this—saw this—coming,” he said, via HoopsHype. “This was not just basketball news. This was world news.”
“I was surprised how big those news were. And yeah, it was a tough, tough decision I think the club had to make,” he added.
Doncic, who had spent his entire career in Dallas before the trade, was dealt to the Lakers alongside Maxi Kleber and Markieff Morris. In return, the Mavericks received Anthony Davis, Max Christie, and a 2029 first-round draft pick, while the Utah Jazz joined the deal by acquiring Jalen Hood-Schifino and draft compensation.
The trade instantly shifted the balance of power in the NBA, pairing Doncic with LeBron James in Los Angeles. For Dallas, it signaled a major organizational reset, with the franchise securing the No. 1 overall pick in the upcoming draft.
Nowitzki acknowledged the emotional conflict of seeing Doncic, a player he mentored, leave Dallas. “Of course, I want to support Luka, but I’m also a Maverick for life,” Nowitzki said. “This was a tough decision for me. But I want to keep obviously supporting both.”
Doncic’s exit drew heavy criticism from Mavericks fans, many of whom viewed the Slovenian star as the natural heir to Nowitzki. General manager Nico Harrison defended the trade by emphasizing defense as the foundation for future success.
The 26-year-old guard was blindsided by the decision, learning about the trade only after it had been finalized. Still, he has adjusted quickly in Los Angeles, averaging 28.2 points, 8.1 rebounds, and 7.5 assists in his first 28 games with the Lakers.
Nowitzki, who remains closely tied to the Mavericks organization, wished Doncic well while reiterating his loyalty to Dallas. “I want to wish Luka the best in L.A., and I think he’s going to have a great career there,” he said. “At this point, both sides are moving on and hopefully doing well after.”
The deal marked the first time in league history that two active All-NBA players were swapped midseason, underscoring its significance. For Nowitzki, it was another reminder of the unpredictability of the NBA. “In this league, there’s always stuff that surprises everybody. That’s what kind of keeps it interesting.”
