Luka Dončić's Father Criticizes Mavericks' Handling of Trade

Created: JANUARY 16, 2025

The NBA world was stunned by the Dallas Mavericks' decision to trade superstar Luka Dončić to the Los Angeles Lakers. The fallout continues, with Dončić's father, Sasa, openly expressing his displeasure with how the Mavericks managed the situation.

In an interview with Arena Sport Slovenija, Sasa Dončić called the Mavericks' treatment of his son "very unfair" and admitted the trade "hurts me personally." He criticized what he perceived as secrecy and hypocrisy from certain individuals within the Mavericks organization.

Sasa Doncic speaks to son Luka

"Luka absolutely doesn’t deserve this," Sasa stated, emphasizing his son's respect for Dallas and his contributions to the city. He highlighted Luka's significant sacrifices and dismissed reports about concerns over Luka's conditioning as unfair and unfounded, given his performance during the previous season, where he played numerous games with heavy minutes and faced constant defensive pressure.

Sasa directly addressed the conditioning concerns, referencing an individual who questioned Luka's fitness despite his heavy workload and consistent performance. He challenged the Mavericks to stand by their decision without seeking excuses or alibis.

Luka upset

The trade has significant financial implications for Dončić. He is no longer eligible for a $323 million supermax extension with the Mavericks, though the Lakers could offer him a $230 million extension. Dončić has been sidelined since Christmas with a strained left calf, having averaged 28.1 points per game before the injury.

Despite the Mavericks' general manager, Nico Harrison, explaining that the trade would benefit the team both presently and in the future, fans expressed their disappointment. A symbolic funeral was even held outside the American Airlines Center, showcasing the emotional impact of Dončić's departure.

Sasa Doncic sits courtside

The Mavericks currently hold a 26-24 record and sit ninth in the Western Conference. Their recent loss to the Cleveland Cavaliers highlighted their struggles, even with the additions of Kyrie Irving (acquired in a separate trade) and Anthony Davis, who had not yet joined the team.

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