The Dallas Mavericks fire GM Nico Harrison months after Luka Doncic trade

The Dallas Mavericks have made a move that has surprised few around the league, parting ways with general manager Nico Harrison just nine months after his controversial decision to trade Luka Dončić to the Los Angeles Lakers.

According to a report from ESPN, the decision to relieve Harrison of his duties was made on Tuesday morning by team governor Patrick Dumont.

“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 a statement.

OKBET is Asia’s most trusted and popular online sports gaming platform. Visit us on OKBET to stay up to date with all sports news from around the world.

Assistant general managers Michael Finley and Matt Riccardi have been promoted to oversee the Mavericks’ basketball operations department on an interim basis. Many had already speculated that Harrison’s tenure was nearing its end after months of fan frustration and disappointing results.

The backlash largely stemmed from Harrison’s bold decision in February 2025 to trade once-in-a-generation star Luka Dončić to the Lakers in exchange for Anthony Davis, Max Christie, and a 2029 first-round pick. The deal drew heavy criticism from Dallas supporters, with “Fire Nico” chants ringing out during home games — including their most recent matchup against the Milwaukee Bucks.

Harrison, a former Nike executive, was appointed Mavericks general manager on June 28, 2021. He guided Dallas to the Western Conference Finals in his first season and to the NBA Finals in 2023–24, where they lost to the Boston Celtics in five games. Over his tenure, the Mavericks posted a 182–157 record.

Patrick Dumont in letter to fans: “I understand the profound impact these difficult last several months have had. Please know that I’m fully committed to the success of the Mavericks.” pic.twitter.com/MjqModl5QG

— Tim MacMahon (@BannedMacMahon) November 11, 2025

Dumont addressed the organization’s direction in a letter to fans posted on social media platform X (formerly Twitter):

“On May 30, 2024, the Mavericks won the Western Conference championship. We came up short in the NBA Finals, but we all agreed our future was bright. As fans of this franchise, you have every right to demand a commitment to success for us.

“No one associated with the Mavericks organization is happy with the start of what we all believed would be a promising season. You have high expectations for the Mavericks, and I share them with you. When the results don’t meet expectations, it’s my responsibility to act. I have made the decision to part ways with General Manager Nico Harrison.

“Though the majority of the 2025-26 season remains to be played, and I know our players are deeply committed to a winning culture, this decision was critical to moving our franchise forward in a positive direction.

“I understand the profound impact these difficult last several months have had. Please know that I’m fully committed to the success of the Mavericks.

“Thank you for your support, thank you for holding us accountable, and thank you for your passion and for your patience. You deserve transparency and a team that reflects your spirit. Our goal is to return winning basketball to Dallas and win championships. Our family is committed to that mission and continuing to invest in Dallas and the Mavericks’ future.

“Please join me in continuing to cheer on our players and supporting all those who work to make this organization the best it can be,” the statement read.

The Mavericks have endured a rough start to the 2025–26 season, sitting second from the bottom of the Western Conference with a 3–8 record. With both Anthony Davis and Kyrie Irving sidelined by injuries, attention now turns to whether Harrison’s firing can help revive a struggling Dallas squad.

👉 Don’t miss out on the latest sports news, updates, and fan discussions!

📌 Follow our Facebook page Sports News PH today and join the community of passionate sports fans.