Dallas Mavericks owner Patrick Dumont defended their move to trade Luka Doncic to the Los Angeles Lakers but understands fans' frustration over the decision. (More NBA News)
Earlier this month, the NBA was stunned when news of the Mavericks' decision to send five-time All-Star Doncic to the Lakers, receiving Anthony Davis as part of the blockbuster deal in return.
Davis made a mark on his debut against the Houston Rockets on Saturday, amassing 26 points, 16 rebounds, seven assists and three blocks, but went off injured in the third quarter, and could miss up to a month.
Mavericks fans also protested outside the arena prior to that win, with Dumont acknowledging it has been an emotional week for the franchise.
"I clearly understand that, and I really appreciate that," Dumont told the Dallas Morning News.
"I'm a big Luka fan. My family are big Luka fans. I have a really deep appreciation for what he brought to this team, what he brought to Dallas, and the excitement he brings. He's an electrifying player.
"I want you to know I really sympathize with all of our fans who feel hurt. Look, as far as I'm concerned, Luka is a Mav for life, and I really wish him nothing but happiness and success in his career as he continues in L.A."
Doncic had struggled with injuries this season, with a calf strain keeping him out since Christmas Day.
Some reports also suggested that Dallas were concerned about the Serb's conditioning, which played its part in the trade, while others raised questions about their willingness to pay for a supermax contract, which Doncic would have been eligible to sign after this season.
"In my mind, the way teams win is by focus, by having the right character, by having the right culture, and having the right dedication to work as hard as possible to create a championship-winning outcome," Dumont said.
"And if you're not doing that, you're going to lose.
"This is not a resource consideration. For people who understand the NBA ... the salary cap is basically the cap.
"So, this is just a risk-allocation decision, right? No problem signing someone to the supermax. It's just a portion of your cap. So, it wasn't an issue. Happy to do it if it's there, no problem."
