The Dallas Mavericks reportedly attempted to damage Luka Doncic’s reputation following their controversial decision to trade the Slovenian superstar to the Los Angeles Lakers in February 2025.
According to The Athletic’s Sam Amick, Dallas conducted a smear campaign aimed at justifying the blockbuster trade, which shocked the NBA and ended Doncic’s tenure with the franchise.
Following the deal, reports emerged questioning Doncic’s conditioning, weight and work ethic.
The negative publicity raised questions about the Mavericks’ reasoning for parting ways with a player widely regarded as one of the league’s premier talents.
Former Dallas general manager Nico Harrison faced considerable scrutiny over the decision, particularly as Doncic began a new chapter with the Lakers.
Since arriving in Los Angeles, Doncic has worked to address concerns surrounding his physical condition.
He underwent a noticeable body transformation during the offseason and appeared on the cover of Men’s Health, highlighting his improved fitness.
The Lakers have benefited from acquiring Doncic, who has become a central figure in the franchise’s plans for the future.
However, questions about his standing among NBA executives remain.
In the league’s annual general managers’ survey, Doncic received no votes when executives were asked to predict the 2026-27 Most Valuable Player.
Despite that result, Doncic opened the season with an impressive performance against the Golden State Warriors, offering an early indication of his ambitions for the campaign.
