The Mavericks announced the dismissal of GM Nico Harrison following a disappointing 3–8 start to the 2025-26 season, and only nine months after he engineered the blockbuster trade that sent Luka Dončić to the Los Angeles Lakers for Anthony Davis and other assets. Owner Patrick Dumont acknowledged the decision in an open letter, citing unmet expectations and franchise damage following the trade.
Harrison’s exit comes amid intense fan backlash, with “Fire Nico!” chants and protests throughout the season as supporters reacted to the trade of Dončić—a move widely criticized as destabilizing the team’s identity. The team’s current struggles and organizational turbulence supported calls for change within front-office leadership.
As the Mavericks begin a search for a permanent GM, interim leadership (including former player-executive Michael Finley and assistant GM Matt Riccardi) will oversee operations. The franchise now faces the dual challenge of rebuilding trust with its fanbase and re-establishing a clear strategic direction under new leadership.
