The Dallas Mavericks have officially entered a new chapter. General Manager Nico Harrison has been dismissed, marking a decisive shift in the franchise’s direction under new leadership. The move comes less than a year after the stunning trade of Luka Dončić to the Los Angeles Lakers — a decision that continues to shape the team’s identity.
Harrison, a former Nike executive celebrated for his player relationships, made headlines in 2025 with the trade that sent Dončić to the Lakers in exchange for Anthony Davis. The plan was to pivot toward a defensively focused roster built around Davis. However, the results were far from convincing. The Mavericks opened the 2025–26 season with a disappointing 3–8 record, reigniting fan frustration that had been simmering for months.
“Fire Nico!” chants echoed throughout the American Airlines Center, reflecting the growing discontent among Mavericks fans. Now, they have the organizational change they demanded.
The firing represents the first major basketball decision made by new Governor Patrick Dumont, who took over controlling ownership from Mark Cuban in late 2023. Dumont publicly acknowledged the team’s underperformance and emphasized accountability.
The message is clear: the Mavericks’ leadership is committed to resetting the culture and aligning the team’s vision with fan expectations.
For now, assistant general managers Michael Finley and Matt Riccardi will step in as co-interim General Managers, providing stability while ownership conducts a thorough search for a long-term replacement.
The removal of Nico Harrison goes beyond a leadership change — it’s a symbolic reset for a franchise eager to rediscover its championship DNA. The decision shows that the new ownership group is listening to fans and willing to make difficult but necessary changes.
As the Mavericks navigate this transition, their next moves will define the post-Luka era. Whether it’s building around Anthony Davis or embarking on a full-scale rebuild, the direction chosen this offseason will determine the franchise’s future for years to come.
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