The Dallas Mavericks have officially parted ways with General Manager Nico Harrison, less than a year after orchestrating the controversial trade that sent franchise superstar Luka Doncic to the Los Angeles Lakers. The decision, announced on Tuesday by team owner Patrick Dumont, marks a dramatic shift in the Mavericks’ front office amid mounting fan frustration and a disappointing season start.

Nico Harrison’s Departure: What Happened?

Harrison, who also served as the President of Basketball Operations, was relieved of his duties following a tumultuous stretch for the Mavericks. The team’s current record of 3-8 underscores the struggles Dallas has faced since the high-profile trade.

“This decision reflects our continued commitment to building a championship-caliber organization, one that delivers for our players, our partners, and most importantly, our fans,” Dumont said in an official statement. In an open letter to the fanbase, Dumont acknowledged the “profound impact these difficult last several months have had” on both the team and its supporters.

Interim Leadership: Michael Finley and Matt Riccardi Step Up

In the wake of Harrison’s firing, the Mavericks have appointed Michael Finley and Matt Riccardi as co-interim general managers. Finley, a former 15-year NBA player, has been with the Mavericks’ front office since 2017, holding various executive roles. Riccardi, previously the team’s assistant general manager, will help guide the franchise as it searches for a permanent replacement.

From Western Conference Finals to Fan Outrage

Harrison, a former Nike executive, was hired by the Mavericks on June 28, 2021, and initially enjoyed success, guiding Dallas to the Western Conference Finals in his first season. The following year, the Mavericks advanced to the 2024 NBA Finals, ultimately falling to the Boston Celtics in five games.

However, the trajectory changed dramatically on February 2, 2025, when Harrison traded Luka Doncic to the Los Angeles Lakers. The blockbuster deal, intended to reshape the team’s roster, instead sparked widespread outrage among Mavericks fans and critics alike.

Fan Backlash and Pressure

The reaction from Dallas supporters was swift and intense. During a recent home loss to the Milwaukee Bucks, chants of “Fire Nico!” were heard, reflecting the growing discontent. The trade of Doncic, a five-time All-NBA selection and cornerstone of the franchise, had left fans disillusioned and the team struggling to maintain competitiveness.

Harrison defended the trade by citing concerns over Doncic’s physical condition and commitment to conditioning, though the rationale did little to appease fans.

The Impact of the Luka Doncic Trade

At the time of the trade, the Mavericks were 26-23, well-positioned for a playoff push. Following Doncic’s departure, Dallas finished the season 13-20, missing the playoffs entirely. Key acquisitions from the trade, including 10-time All-Star Anthony Davis, have battled injuries, further complicating the rebuilding process. Davis missed six weeks after an adductor strain in his Dallas debut and is currently sidelined with a calf injury. Meanwhile, rookie Cooper Flagg, the team’s 2025 top overall draft pick, is adjusting to the NBA pace.

Despite the setbacks, Flagg showed promise, recording a career-high 26 points and pulling down nine rebounds in a recent game against the Bucks.

What’s Next for the Dallas Mavericks?

With Harrison’s departure, the Mavericks face a crucial period of transition. The search for a permanent general manager will be critical in determining the team’s future trajectory, as Dallas looks to regain competitiveness in the Western Conference and reestablish trust with its fanbase.

The fan base’s strong reactions to both the trade and the team’s struggles highlight the stakes: the Mavericks need strong leadership and smart roster management to bounce back. As Michael Finley and Matt Riccardi take interim control, all eyes will be on how the team navigates this pivotal moment in franchise history.