Heartbroken Mavs fans react to news of Doncic trade
DALLAS — It was a sleepless night in Dallas for Mavericks fans, following news of the three-way trade between the Dallas, the Los Angeles Lakers and the Utah Jazz that will send Luka Doncic to California.
Doncic has earned all All-NBA First Team honors for each of the last five seasons and could go on to be an all-time great player in the league, in addition to commanding an enormous fan base across the country.
"We're all heartbroken, man," said Lance Greenslade as he stood outside the American Airlines Center on Sunday. "There's nothing else you can say that even describes a level of emotion. I didn't sleep last night."
That heartbreak grew along with a small crowd throughout the day at a shrine for the superstar guard. He'll be joined in LA by forward center Maxi Kleber and forward center Markieff Morris.
"[I'm a] Mavs fan for life. But it's definitely not what I'm feeling right now. This has got to be the dumbest trade in NBA history," said Carlos Solis as he stood in front of the makeshift memorial.
In return, Dallas will welcome 10-time All-Star and current Lakers center Anthony Davis, guard Mac Christie and an upcoming first-round draft pick in the deal.
But, the news doesn't sit well with super fans who question why the team would trade their star player at all.
"Anthony Davis is great, if we would have got him five years ago. But I would rather have Luka Doncic for the next 10 years. No questions asked," said Dalraj Singh as he peered at the memorial.
Doncic posted a letter to fans on social media Sunday afternoon thanking Mavs fans for their support.
In an official statement, Mavericks General Manager Nico Harrison said the team is leaning on the incoming veteran talent to elevate their defense.
"We are thankful for Luka and grateful for his efforts during his time with us," said General Manager Nico Harrison.
"This is a new chapter, and we are excited to welcome Anthony and Max to the fold," he added.
"Dallas is my city but I'm not watching the NBA anymore, " said Lance.
"They say loyalty never fades away. But it definitely faded last night," added Carlos.
The Dallas Mavericks start a 3-game road trip Sunday in Cleveland. Their next home game is Saturday, February 8.