The Dallas Mavericks may have landed the No. 1 pick in the 2025 NBA Draft and took one of the most highly touted prospects in recent memory, Cooper Flagg.
Still, the heat remains on general manager Nico Harrison.
Despite the excitement around Flagg, frustration boiled over during the team's official watch party at their home arena, where fans broke out in loud "Fire Nico" chants — a clear sign that many still haven't forgotten the controversial decision made in trading superstar guard Luka Doncic to the Los Angeles Lakers.
Maverick fans are still clearly not happy with the management's decision to trade away their superstar in February. It was a move that no one saw coming, as the expectation was that Doncic would be a Maverick for life.
The Mavericks had other ideas when it came to Doncic's future with the franchise. Internally, there was doubt about whether he was the kind of star they could build around long-term, with concerns surrounding his conditioning and overall commitment. Team leadership, including Harrison and ownership, seemed to question whether Doncic had the physical durability and work ethic to carry them to a championship.
Dallas appears to be betting that Doncic's body won't hold up over time. But the 26-year-old is already putting together a resume worthy of the Hall of Fame. He's one of only three players in NBA history to earn five All-NBA First Team selections before turning 26, joining legends Kevin Durant and Tim Duncan in that exclusive club.
This offseason, Doncic has looked like a man on a mission — noticeably leaner and seemingly more locked in than ever.
Meanwhile, Dallas' front office continues to face heavy backlash. From the controversial trade itself to frustrating public comments and questionable roster decisions, it's been a rocky few months.
While Maverick fans are still not over it, the page is officially turned. Doncic is likely to stay in Los Angeles and do his best to prove doubters wrong, while the Mavericks will strive to build around Flagg, Anthony Davis, and Kyrie Irving in the near future.
For more on the Dallas Mavericks, Luka Doncic, Cooper Flagg and general NBA news, head on over to Newsweek Sports.
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