Politician comments on Luka Doncic trade, points guns at Dallas Mavericks and GM Nico Harrison: “A generational talent you protect”

As the debate around Luka Doncic’s trade from the Dallas Mavericks to the Los Angeles Lakers continues to fuel animosity toward team general manager Nico Harrison, the latest commentary by a politician is expected to intensify the backlash. Former City of Dallas mayor Tom Leppert has written a column in which he shares his views and frustration over Doncic’s trade.Pointing all guns at Harrison, Leppert wrote in his column for the Dallas Morning News, “General manager Nico Harrison has tried to spin this in many ways. As a 'necessary pivot,' 'a reset,' a need to 'set the table for the future. His mantra that 'defense wins championships' seems to be where he settled to defend this mess.”“The Mavs management and ownership have every right to run their assets as they choose. But they must also acknowledge that the value of their asset is derived from this community, and this community is owed, in return, honesty and accountability for such actions. We haven’t gotten either,” he added.Doncic was a star performer, though questions were raised about his defensive abilities. Singing his praises in the column, Leppert wrote, “Luka gave Dallas national relevance, unforgettable moments, and a genuine sense of identity post-Dirk Nowitzki. He was a generational pillar; the kind of player cities build around for decades. A generational talent you protect, support and empower."Doncic has been very careful with his words following the shocking trade. He told ESPN after the trade, "It's just sad the way he's talking right now. I never say anything bad about him, and I just want to move on. The fans, my ex-teammates, I'll always keep at heart. It's time for me to move on from there."Also Read: Dallas Mavericks win 2025 NBA Draft lottery, social media asks: “What did Nico Harrison know?”Doncic is currently processing everything after the season ended early for the Los Angeles Lakers. He recently signed a Mavericks jersey with ‘Fire Nico’ printed on it, and it's going for auction with a bid price exceeding $1,200. In a latest development, the Dallas Mavericks won the 2025 NBA Draft lottery—and among the first to react was Doncic’s teammate LeBron James, who responded with several laughing emojis on social media.