Dirk Nowitzki, the legendary former Dallas Mavericks player, has expressed his belief that Mark Cuban, the team’s former majority owner, bears some responsibility for the controversial trade that sent Luka Dončić to the Los Angeles Lakers. Nowitzki pointed out that after Cuban sold more than 50% of the Mavericks’ ownership stake, he retained less than 30%, resulting in diminished influence over team decisions. He noted that post-sale, the team began heading in a different direction, culminating in the trade. Nowitzki stated, “I think he still owns a little under 30%, but I doubt he has any real decision-making power anymore.” He further observed that it would be surprising if Cuban had been involved in the decision to trade Dončić, given his reduced role.
This perspective aligns with reports that Cuban was not involved in the trade discussions. Following the trade, Cuban expressed his disapproval and surprise, stating that he had no knowledge of the move. Former player Chandler Parsons recounted texting Cuban about the trade, to which Cuban replied, “That makes two of us.” The trade has sparked significant backlash from fans, leading to protests and calls for refunds. Many fans have canceled their season tickets in protest, and some have even staged mock funerals outside the American Airlines Center to mourn Dončić’s departure
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