Mark Cuban has spoken candidly about the Dallas Mavericks’ decision to trade Luka Doncic earlier this year, calling it one of the toughest moments of his tenure with the team.
In an appearance on DLLS Mavs, Cuban admitted the emotional impact of parting with a franchise star who had defined the organization for six seasons.
“We all got hurt when Luka got traded. Me as much as anyone because I felt like I let people down by not being there,” Cuban said.
Doncic, who was dealt to the Los Angeles Lakers in February as part of a blockbuster package involving Anthony Davis, left behind a fanbase that was stunned by the move. Cuban acknowledged the backlash but noted that such reactions come with the territory.
“I heard that after Steve Nash. I heard that when we brought in Wang Zhi Zhi from China, I heard that when players done things that are controversial. ‘Fan’ is short for ‘fanatic.’ And that passion is a good thing. Those things dissipate with time,” he explained.
While Mavericks fans continue to process the loss of Doncic, Cuban shifted focus to what he sees as the franchise’s future cornerstone: No. 1 overall pick Cooper Flagg.
“But what’s done is done. We got Cooper [Flagg]. Basketball gods were looking down on us. And Coop’s a real deal. He’s not even 19 years old. He could literally, depending on science, play for the Mavs for 25 years,” Cuban said.
Flagg, selected first overall in the 2025 NBA Draft, represents Dallas’ reset after the surprising trade. Cuban made it clear that the rookie’s potential gives him confidence in the team’s long-term outlook.
“I’m guessing that if we do well and win, those sentiments will change,” he added.
Doncic, meanwhile, has already left his mark in Los Angeles, scoring 30.2 points per game in his first playoff run with the Lakers. His departure was historic, as the deal marked the first time two reigning All-NBA players were swapped midseason.
For Cuban, however, the focus is on turning the page and building around Flagg. While acknowledging the pain of losing Doncic, he underscored his belief that victories will eventually reshape public perception.
