Former Dallas mayor calls out Luka Doncic trade for alleged casino gains for ownership

Former Dallas mayor Tom Leppert expressed his thoughts on the Luka Doncic trade. Doncic was involved in one of the most controversial trades in NBA history in February when the Dallas Mavericks traded him to the Lakers for Anthony Davis.

While the LA Lakers benefitted from the trade, being able to secure the third seed in the Western Conference, Dallas faithful are still not over about what transpired in February.

Tom Leppert shared his feelings towards the Dallas Mavericks association. Leppert stated that Dallas fans deserve better Mavericks management. The former Dallas mayor alleged trading Doncic was only to benefit the Mavericks owners' aspirations of acquiring a casino.

"Dallas fans deserve better than a billionaire owner more focused on lobbying for casino legislation than protecting the franchise," Leppert said.

With Luka out of the picture, the Mavericks were knocked out of the postseason by losing in the 2025 NBA Play-In Tournament. They finished in 10th place with Kyrie Irving injured, Anthony Davis inconsistently available and Klay Thompson struggling for consistency.

NBA legend defends Nico Harrison for Luka Doncic trade

While many have been complaining about the Luka Doncic trade since February, it appears some support the Dallas Mavericks' jaw-dropping move. Miami Heat legend Udonis Haslem, doesn't mind the questionable move by Nico Harrison.

Haslem doesn't blame the Mavericks organization for questioning Doncic's ability to lead by example. While Luka undoubtedly carried Dallas to their first NBA Finals appearance last season since 2011, his concerning physical issues had higher-ups wondering if he was the guy they wanted to lead their team.

"What you [Luka Doncic] got to realize is that these other 13 or 14 guys ain't as talented as you so they can't do what you do... and I am not saying it is right or wrong but what I will say is I need my best player to also be my leader," Haslem said.

Despite trading Doncic for an injury-prone Anthony Davis, Udonis Haslem also believes that the Mavericks still have what it takes to win it all next season as long as they remain healthy throughout the year.