Mavs GM Nico Harrison unfazed by concerns over attracting star free agents

Harrison doesn't believe free agents will be deterred from the Mavericks after the Luka Doncic trade.

Mar 9, 2025; Dallas, Texas, USA; Dallas Mavericks general manager Nico Harrison (left) speaks with Phoenix Suns assistant coach David Fizdale (right) before the game at the American Airlines Center. Mandatory Credit: Jerome Miron-Imagn Images | Jerome Miron-Imagn Images

The Dallas Mavericks are still in disarray after trading Luka Doncic to the Los Angeles Lakers shortly before the NBA Trade Deadline. Since then, noise has only continued to persist on and off the court.

The fanbase has vocally protested the decision, calling for general manager Nico Harrison and team governor Patrick Dumont's jobs. In the same vein, the Mavericks have had bad luck between the lines, dealing with a slew of injuries, including a season-ending ACL tear to star guard Kyrie Irving.

It hasn't helped that Dallas' main prize in the Doncic trade, Anthony Davis, missed roughly six weeks of action after aggravating an adductor strain in his debut with the franchise.

READ MORE: Mark Cuban fires back at Mavericks' Nico Harrison after Dirk Nowitzki disrespect

Apr 9, 2025; Dallas, Texas, USA; Dallas Mavericks general manager Nico Harrison during the game between the Dallas Mavericks and the Los Angeles Lakers at American Airlines Center. Mandatory Credit: Jerome Miron-Imagn Images | Jerome Miron-Imagn Images

Considering the quick turn from an NBA Finals appearance to a play-in berth, there's some wonder about the trajectory of the Mavericks and if it could limit their interest from free agents moving forward.

That's something that Harrison isn't worried about, per The Dallas Morning News's Mike Curtis. Though, Harrison has made it clear that he's not worried about anything except defense.

“No. I don’t. I think that’s one of the reasons why I’m here. But it’s not just me. It’s Dallas. It’s one of the fifth largest metroplexes in the US. It’s a great city to live in. The fanbase is amazing. Part of the ”Fire Nico" chants, although, you would rather the fans cheer for the team and me not be the story. It’s a great fanbase and you need that fanbase to win," Harrison said on Tuesday.

"I think that’s an attraction. J-Kidd, a Hall of Fame point guard, is your coach. I think all of that helps to attract," Harrison continued. "It’s not just the Nico Harrison show. But to answer your question, no, that won’t affect our ability to attract free agents.”

The Mavericks did land Klay Thompson in a sign-and-trade with the Golden State Warriors last summer. The team also signed Naji Marshall in free agency.

However, Dallas is already well over the cap and would have to make some serious moves to be a legitimate suitor for big time free agents this summer.

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READ MORE: Mavericks CEO makes embarrassing Warriors comparison for Luka Doncic-Lakers trade

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