Dirk Nowitzki has never been shy about speaking his mind on the state of the Dallas Mavericks, and he’s once again chiming in with advice for his former team. In an appearance on 105.3 The Fan, the Hall of Famer explained how the Mavs can begin to repair their fractured relationship with fans following the shocking Luka Doncic trade, stressing the importance of proving their commitment to winning on the court.
“At this point, it’s just keep going, keep putting a good product out there,” Nowitzki said during an appearance on 105.3 The Fan. “The trade is what it is. It happens. You want to show that you have the Mavs, the organization, and the fans in your mind and at heart, and you want to put the best product out there that you believe is going to win and compete for years to come.”
Dirk may not agree with the decision to trade Luka Doncic, but his loyalty remains in Dallas, where it’s always been since he was drafted in 1998. Over the years, his role has changed dramatically in the franchise, going from superstar to advisor, and now serving as a symbol of better times.
“I’m not too involved in front office decisions these days,” Dirk added. “I try to go to practice a lot… it felt a little weird… not knowing my role. So since then, I’ve kind of pulled back again,” he said. “I’ve met with Patrick, I’ve met with Nico over the years. I’m not really part of the day-to-day business… Now obviously, with me going into broadcasting, I’ll be super busy starting here in October with the season.”
Things have changed a lot since Mark Cuban sold his share and gave up controlling ownership of the Mavericks. With a new regime in charge, and Nico Harrison having full authority to carry out his vision, they set right to work establishing a new identity for the team, built around teamwork and work ethic over relying on Luka to succeed.
Of course, giving up Doncic inspired anger from the fans, and they made their rage known in a variety of ways. Besides staging protests outside the arena and boycotting games, they hurled insults at the Mavericks, and specifically Nico Harrison, as a way to express their disapproval.
The only thing that can win back their favor now is by going above and beyond to show the fans that they are still committed to winning. With Anthony Davis and Klay Thompson on the roster, and Kyrie Irving set to return in 2026, they already have a core that can compete with the best in the West, but the work is only just beginning.
As the X-factor to their future, Cooper Flagg has the potential to make everything right if he develops into the kind of player that the Mavericks expect him to be. Between his development and the depth of their entire roster, Dallas could be primed for an epic redemption arc.
For Dirk, the key is simple: the Mavericks have to earn back the fans’ trust through results. No amount of statements, explanations, or spin will heal the sting of losing Luka Doncic. But if Cooper Flagg blossoms, Anthony Davis stays healthy, and Kyrie Irving eventually returns to form, Dallas could rewrite its story and show the city that brighter days are ahead.
