‘Fire Nico Harrison’ chants from Mavericks fans follow Cooper Flagg’s selection.

In the 2025 NBA Draft, the Dallas Mavericks may have selected Cooper Flagg, one of the most highly regarded talents in recent memory, with the first overall choice.
Nico Harrison, the general manager, is still under pressure. Fans erupted in boisterous “Fire Nico” chants during the team’s official watch party at their home arena, demonstrating that many people are still upset about the contentious trade of superstar guard Luka Doncic to the Los Angeles Lakers, despite the excitement surrounding Flagg.

‍Nico Harrison, general manager of the Dallas Mavericks, watches the Memphis Grizzlies play in the Play-In Tournament at FedExForum in Memphis, Tennessee, on April 18, 2025.

It’s still obvious that Maverick supporters are upset with the management’s February move of their hero. Since it was assumed that Doncic would be a Maverick for the rest of his life, nobody saw this change coming. Regarding Doncic’s future with the team, the Mavericks had different plans. Concerns about his conditioning and general dedication raised internal questions about whether he was the kind of star they could develop a long-term relationship around. Ownership and Harrison, as well as the team’s leadership, appeared to doubt Doncic’s work ethic and physical stamina to lead them to a title.

Dallas seems to be placing a wager that Doncic’s body will not endure. The 26-year-old, however, is already building a Hall of Fame-caliber background. Only three players in NBA history—alongside Tim Duncan and Kevin Durant—have been selected to the All-NBA First Team five times before turning 26. Doncic has appeared to be more focused and slimmer than ever throughout this summer, giving the impression that he is a man on a mission. Dallas’ front staff is still receiving a lot of criticism in the meantime. It has been a difficult few months, from the contentious transaction itself to depressing remarks made by the public and dubious roster choices.

The page is officially turned, but Maverick fans are still upset. In the near future, the Mavericks will try to build around Kyrie Irving, Anthony Davis, and Flagg, while Doncic is probably going to remain in Los Angeles and try his hardest to disprove sceptics.