Nico Harrison could fix things at Mavs after Doncic trade by bringing one particular star, claims an NBA champ

A bittersweet night unfolded at the American Airlines Center for Dallas Mavericks fans. While they honored their former star, Luka Doncic, the team suffered a tough loss to the Los Angeles Lakers. The Mavs’ general manager, however, was the focal point of frustration among supporters. Now, a former NBA champion has shared a potential solution to mend the relationship between the Mavericks and their fanbase.

Harrison, in a surprising turn of events, believed that acquiring Anthony Davis would be the key to securing a playoff spot. The Mavericks are still in contention, but they now face the challenge of advancing through the Play-In Tournament.

When the trade for Davis was announced, the Mavericks appeared to be in a strong position. However, significant setbacks, including injuries to key players like Davis, have derailed their progress. With Doncic now back in Dallas, Harrison’s tenure as the team’s general manager appears increasingly uncertain.

In light of the current situation, former NBA champion Kendrick Perkins offered a potential solution on ESPN, especially after the Phoenix Suns were eliminated from the playoffs. “There’s a way for Dallas to make this right,” Perkins said. “People feel like they didn’t get enough with Davis and that it might’ve been better to have Austin Reaves. But once the season ends, the Mavericks should go after Kevin Durant.“

Kevin Durant #35 of the Phoenix Suns during Game One of the Western Conference First Round Playoffs at Footprint Center on April 16, 2023.

Perkins’ message to Harrison

Perkins has some advice for Mavericks general manager. Amid a challenging season for the Suns, and Durant’s struggles since his move from the Warriors, the prospect of reuniting Durant with Kyrie Irving and Anthony Davis is becoming more intriguing.

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“That’s how you make it right if you’re Nico Harrison… Go get [Kevin Durant] to pair alongside [Kyrie Irving and Anthony Davis],” Perkins said, addressing Harrison after the Mavericks’ setback against the Lakers, following the “Fire Nico” chants that echoed through the arena on Wednesday night.

Durant’s potential move to the Mavericks

Perkins raises an important point: after the Doncic trade, Mavericks fans are eager for another superstar to rally behind. Durant, one of the league’s premier players, might be a logical target after his less-than-successful stint with the Suns. The possibility of Durant joining the Mavericks next season could be a reality.

Reports suggest that the Suns might struggle to retain Durant after this season, due to complications with his contract and administrative issues. The early playoff exit could prompt Durant to explore his options, with a move to another team, like the Mavericks, seeming plausible.

This scenario is promising for the Mavericks. If Harrison wants to win back the support of the fans, he needs to fill the void left by Doncic. Durant could provide the missing piece for a franchise that hasn’t won an NBA title since the 2010-2011 season.