The Dallas Mavericks made a decisive front office pivot on Tuesday, November 11, dismissing general manager Nico Harrison and acknowledging the franchise’s missteps in the blockbuster deal that moved Luka Doncic last season. The shift arrives just nine months after the much-debated trade that brought Anthony Davis to Dallas and reshaped the roster — a move that has since defined the team’s turbulent year.

The timing of the decision was no surprise to those inside the organization or to fans who have directed frustration at Harrison for months. Team governor Patrick Dumont attended Monday’s tight loss to Milwaukee, where chants calling for Harrison’s removal echoed again through American Airlines Center. The public pressure, paired with uneven results and sharp criticism from supporters, ultimately forced the team’s hand.

Finley, Riccardi tasked with stabilizing the franchise

In Harrison’s place, Dallas installed Michael Finley and Matt Riccardi as co-interim general managers, signaling a temporary leadership structure as the franchise evaluates long-term options. The front office had hoped its stroke of lottery luck — landing top pick Cooper Flagg despite just a 1.8% chance — would buy goodwill. But the sting of losing Doncic, once seen as the Mavericks’ foundational star, continued to overshadow optimism.

With the roster still adjusting to Davis’ arrival and the fan base skeptical of management’s vision, the front office reset reflects an urgency to restore credibility and momentum within the building.

Attendance declines mirror fan frustration

Crowd energy has dwindled, with empty seats in the upper bowl becoming a frequent sight — a stark contrast to the atmosphere that defined Dallas since drafting Doncic third overall in 2018. The departure of the franchise centerpiece and the ensuing backlash fractured the connection between club and community, creating pressure that no draft win could erase.

Now, with interim leadership and a fractured fan relationship to mend, the Mavericks face a pivotal stretch in re-establishing stability and charting their next direction. (AP | Schuyler Dixson)