For the first time in his career, Anthony Davis’ arrival in a new city hasn’t been met with celebration. Instead, Mavericks fans are reeling from the blockbuster trade that sent Luka Doncic to the Los Angeles Lakers, leaving them heartbroken and furious.
Davis, a 10-time All-Star, knows exactly why emotions are running high.”I understand it,” Davis said Friday. “Obviously, it’s a business, and I get who Luka was to this franchise, to the city. I’m never going to downplay that-just like I know what I meant to the city of L.A. But it’s my job to come in, play basketball, and give the fans hope and reassurance on why [GM] Nico [Harrison] brought me here.”
While Davis prepares to make his Mavericks debut against the Houston Rockets on Saturday, angry fans are organizing protests outside the American Airlines Center. A GoFundMe campaign has even raised over $40,000 to put up billboards criticizing the team’s management.
Harrison stands by his decision
Mavericks general manager Nico Harrison has taken full responsibility for the controversial trade, explaining that upgrading the team’s defense and culture was a priority. However, his decision has not been well received.
Sources told ESPN that security at the arena will be heightened due to threats directed at Harrison, some of which have included racial slurs. The GM has even hired personal security in response to the backlash.
Harrison, a former Nike executive, has known Davis since he was a teenager and maintained a close relationship with him over the years. Mavericks head coach Jason Kidd, who worked with Davis during the Lakers‘ 2020 championship run, also played a role in bringing him to Dallas.
Despite the chaos surrounding his arrival, Davis remains focused on proving his worth.
“Obviously, I understand who Luka is and what he’s already done for our game,” Davis said. “He’s a phenomenal player, going to be one of the best to ever play basketball.
“But for Nico to trade for me shows his belief in me and what I can do on the floor. It’s my job to produce every night and have Mavs Nation believe that as well. So I’m excited for the challenge.”