Dallas Mavericks’ popularity amongst fans sank this year after they initiated the trade that saw their own superstar Luka Doncic get shockingly sent to rivals Los Angeles Lakers. Franchise legend Dirk Nowitzki was just as shocked with the move the team made but said all he can do for now is support the five-time All-Star.
“It was reported that he was pretty down and disappointed how it went down, so I wanted to be there for him,” he said back two weeks after the trade went down.
“I wanted to be there for his family and show support. You guys saw my face, it was weird. It was surreal to see him play for the Lakers. I’ll never be a Lakers fan but I must always be a Luka fan.”
As for the front office, he still believes in them but they must do something to earn back the fans.
“At this point, it’s just keep going, keep putting a good product out there,” Nowitzki said a guesting with the 105.3 The Fan.
Dirk Nowitzki on what Dallas Mavericks should do
It is rare for the German NBA legend to comment on that trade done by GM Nico Harrison who was instantly hated by the fans. There was even a point that some fans and banners have to be banned at the American Airlines Center as people found it hard to move on from Doncic.
Nowitzki said the Mavs must show they are competitive enough and be a contender.
“The trade is what it is. It happens. You want to show that you have the Mavs, the organization, and the fans in your mind and at heart, and you want to put the best product out there that you believe is going to win and compete for years to come.”
He also provided a challenge to the team owner.
“The owner has to show that he’s willing to spend and then make this a great team for the next decade to come,” he said.
“So that’s all there really is to it.”
Right now, people can argue that Mavs are not that far from contention as long as they stay health. The is composed of Anthony Davis, Klay Thompson, and Kyrie Irving. They will be joined by 2025 no. 1 pick Cooper Flagg who is described some analysts as a complete player and NBA ready type of rookie. They also got solid role players in PJ Washington, Derek Lively II, D’Angelo Russell, and Daniel Gafford.
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