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Former NBA star explains GM Nico Harrison’s role in Luka Doncic-Anthony Davis trade after Dallas Mavericks’ elimination from play-ins

Former NBA star explains GM Nico Harrison’s role in Luka Doncic-Anthony Davis trade after Dallas Mavericks’ elimination from play-ins

TOI Sports Desk / TIMESOFINDIA.COM / Apr 19, 2025, 19:06 IST

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Nico Harrison received considerable criticism owing to his speculated role in the Luka Doncic-Anthony Davis super secret trade. However, he recently got a clean chit from a former NBA star who hinted at his role in the trade, calling it not so prominent. He said that the trade decision was not his alone and was an outcome of the Mavericks' management strategies. Lakers have welcomed Luka with open arms and plan to use his agility and IQ for the playoffs.

Former NBA star explains GM Nico Harrison’s role in Luka Doncic-Anthony Davis trade after Dallas Mavericks’ elimination from play-ins (Image Credit: Getty Images)

Key Highlights

The Dallas Mavericks became a laughing stock when their super secret trade also could not prevent their elimination from the play-ins
The trade came under the scanner again recently, as experts sat down to dig into the details of the decision, underscoring the real forces responsible for it
Luka Doncic and Anthony Davis were traded overnight in an overly dynamic manner, with management citing a futuristic approach as the reason behind

The Luka Doncic-Anthony Davis trade colored the sports columns vividly owing to its overly dramatic nature. The Dallas Mavericks provided several reasons to justify the trade. It came under the scanner again following the Mavericks’ exit from the play-ins. Experts like Mitch Richmond detailed how the trade might have taken place and said that the Mavericks’ GM, Nico Harrison, cannot be held solely responsible for it.

Nico Harrison’s role in Luka Doncic-Anthony Davis trade analyzed by experts like Mitch Richmond

Was Nico Harrison solely responsible for the Luka Doncic-Anthony Davis trade, or did he just play the spokesperson? The question was a topic of discussion during the latest episode of Nightcap, where experts like Warriors legend Mitch Richmond shared their opinion. Elaborating on the process that might have gone behind the decision, Richmond said:
“When you’re a GM, you have to take that hit. Because the owner is gonna put it on you, even though he’s making the decisions. When you make a big decision like trading Luka, you know you had to talk to someone and someone had to pull that trigger.”

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Mitch Richmond basically gave the Mavericks’ GM a clean chit, saying he was a good man and that he must have faced the pressure from the team’s executives and front office. He was of the opinion that Harrison merely officiated the trade and formally announced Luka’s exit.
Recently, the Mavericks’ governor, Jeanie Buss, also discussed the trade and called it a decision for the future. She justified the trade secrecy, explaining that the prior disclosure or media leaks could have hampered the deal.

Luka Doncic-Anthony Davis top secret trade is now Los Angeles Lakers’ gain

The final outcome of the Luka Doncic-Anthony Davis trade is that the Los Angeles Lakers have got the x-factor in their lineup with Luka’s presence. Lakers’ LeBron James recently highlighted the challenging role Lukas will be entrusted with in the playoffs. He considered him a pivot to the team’s offensive strategy and recommended giving the ball to Luka as often as possible.

Lakers Playoff Practice ! Lebron James workout & Lakers live scrimmage

According to StatMuse’s data, Luka Doncic has averaged 28.2 points, 7.5 assists, and 8.1 rebounds in the 28 games he has played in the 2025 season.
Luka is busy preparing for the upcoming big games. He is molding himself according to the Lakers’ needs and seeking guidance from LeBron James and coach JJ Reddick, who are shaping his game and helping him integrate into the system.
Also Read: How does Luka Doncic train? Exploring the diet and fitness routine of Los Angeles Lakers star
Is Nico Harrison solely responsible for Luka’s trade to the Lakers? Share your thoughts in the comments.

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TOI Sports Desk

The TOI Sports Desk excels in a myriad of roles that capture the essence of live sporting events and deliver compelling content to readers worldwide. From running live blogs for India and non-India cricket matches to global spectacles featuring Indian talents, like the Chess World Cup final featuring Praggnanandhaa and the Badminton World Championships semifinal featuring HS Prannoy, our live coverage extends to all mega sporting events. We extensively cover events like the Olympics, Asian Games, Cricket World Cups, FIFA World Cups, and more. The desk is also adept at writing comprehensive match reports and insightful post-match commentary, complemented by stats-based articles that provide an in-depth analysis of player performances and team dynamics. We track news wires for key stories, conduct exclusive player interviews in both text and video formats, and file content from print editions and reporters. We keep track of all viral stories, trending topics and produce our own copies on the subjects. We deliver accurate, engaging, and up-to-the-minute sports content, round the clock.

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