Anthony Davis Faces a Tough Welcome in Dallas
In the world of sports, change is often met with a mix of excitement and apprehension. But in Dallas, the recent arrival of Anthony Davis to the Mavericks has sparked a wave of emotions that lean heavily towards heartbreak and anger. For the first time in his illustrious career, Davis’s move to a new franchise hasn’t been met with the usual fanfare and celebration. Instead, the city is reeling from the shock of losing their beloved superstar, Luka Doncic.
Doncic, at just 25 years old, had become the face of the Mavericks, leading them to the NBA Finals only months ago. His unexpected departure in a blockbuster trade has left fans in disbelief, struggling to come to terms with the new reality. “I understand it,” Davis said on Friday, acknowledging the fans’ outrage. “Obviously it’s a business, and I get who Luka was to this franchise, to the city. I’m never going to downplay that — just how I know what I meant to the city of L.A. So I’m not surprised by the fans’ reaction and the city’s reaction, but it’s my job to come in and play basketball and do what I’m supposed to do and give the fans hope and reassurance on why [GM] Nico [Harrison] brought me here.”
The discontent among the fan base is palpable, with a protest planned outside the American Airlines Center before Davis makes his Mavericks debut in Saturday afternoon’s home game against the Houston Rockets. The frustration has even led to a GoFundMe campaign that raised over $40,000 to fund billboards criticizing Harrison and the team’s new ownership group around the arena.
“I don’t know how tomorrow’s going to be as far as the reaction, but I can’t control that,” Davis said. “What I can control, it’s going and just winning basketball games and helping the team do whatever I can. But at the end of the day, I’m going to give the city life back.”
General Manager Nico Harrison, who has taken full responsibility for the decision to trade Doncic, was notably absent from the Friday news conference introducing Davis, along with Max Christie and forward Caleb Martin, who was acquired in a separate trade. Harrison cited a desire to upgrade Dallas’ defense and enhance the Mavericks’ culture as key reasons for the trade when he spoke to a smaller group of media on Sunday, shortly after the deal was finalized.
However, the backlash has been intense, with sources telling ESPN that there will be increased security at the American Airlines Center on Saturday due to threats received by Harrison, some of which have included racial epithets. Harrison has also hired personal security in response to the threats.
Harrison’s decision to trade Doncic was made privately, with discussions held exclusively with Los Angeles Lakers general manager Rob Pelinka. After determining that trading Doncic was in Dallas’ best interest, Harrison targeted Davis as the centerpiece of the return package.
Harrison, a former Nike executive, has had a close relationship with Davis since the star was a teenager. Mavericks coach Jason Kidd, who was a Lakers assistant coach when Davis helped lead Los Angeles to the 2019-20 championship, also shares a strong bond with the big man.
“Obviously, I understand who Luka is and what he’s able to do and what he’s already done for our game,” said Davis, a five-time All-Defensive selection who is averaging 25.7 points, 11.9 rebounds, and 2.1 blocks per game this season. “He’s a phenomenal player, going to be one of the best to ever play the game of basketball.
“But to have Nico trade for me just shows his belief in me and what I can do on the floor. It’s my job to produce every night and have Mavs nation believe that as well. So I’m excited for the challenge.”
- Anthony Davis is averaging 25.7 points, 11.9 rebounds, and 2.1 blocks per game this season.
- Luka Doncic led the Mavericks to the NBA Finals only months ago.
- A GoFundMe campaign raised over $40,000 for billboards criticizing the Mavericks’ management.
Originally Written by: Tim MacMahon
