After the Dallas Mavericks traded Luka Doncic to the Los Angeles Lakers in exchange for Anthony Davis, the franchise faced heavy criticism from both the media and fans. However, inside the organization, Mavericks CEO Rick Welts says there are no regrets about the move.
To this day, many still question Dallas’ decision to part ways with Doncic, who had been the face of the franchise. Welts, however, insists the organization stands by the trade and believes the team has recovered from the backlash.
“You can’t have fear or regrets in this business,” Welts said during an interview with Bloomberg TV. “It’s all about how you move forward, so it doesn’t really serve a purpose to have regrets. What I will say is I learned about the depth of the connection between Mavericks fans and this team, and that to me is half glass full because I knew we could restore that over time. I didn’t think it would happen quite as quickly, perhaps, as it has“.
Just days following Doncic’s departure, Mavericks fans voiced their frustration with protests outside American Airlines Center and chants directed at general manager Nico Harrison during home games.
The trade-related challenges were compounded by injuries to Dallas’ two biggest stars. Davis suffered an adductor tear in his left leg on the same day as his debut against the Rockets, sidelining him for a month. Kyrie Irving later tore the ACL in his left knee during a March 3 game against the Sacramento Kings, ending his season.
Welts praised how the franchise handled Doncic’s first return to Dallas as a Laker, calling it a special moment for fans and the player alike. “I would also say I’m incredibly proud of how the organization presented itself for Luka’s first game back at American Airlines Center when he was a Los Angeles Laker. I think if you watch that game, it was an opportunity for fans to say thank you,” Welts added.
“You saw the emotion on Luka’s face, you saw the way that night unfolded in tributes to Luka. I think he’ll always be such a big part of the history here,” he continued. “And we wish him nothing but good luck, but we also hope we beat his team every time we play them going forward”.
Things have since started to turn around for Dallas. The Mavericks secured the No. 1 pick in the NBA Draft, selecting Duke standout Cooper Flagg, a promising addition who could elevate the team’s future — even if the memory of Doncic’s trade still lingers for many fans.