Mark Cuban Reveals Jason Kidd's Role in Luka Doncic Trade to Lakers

Mavericks owner admits coach was involved in controversial deal that sent star player to Los Angeles

Mar. 31, 2026 at 6:43pm

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A cubist, geometric painting depicting a fragmented basketball court and players, conveying the discord and disunity surrounding the Mavericks' decision to trade their star player.The Mavericks' controversial trade of Luka Doncic has fractured the team's relationship with its fanbase, exposing deep divisions within the organization.Minneapolis Today

In a recent podcast interview, Dallas Mavericks owner Mark Cuban acknowledged that head coach Jason Kidd played a role in the team's controversial decision to trade star player Luka Doncic to the Los Angeles Lakers in 2025. Cuban said there was 'animosity' between the former general manager Nico Harrison and Doncic's team, and that Kidd's close relationship with Lakers star Anthony Davis was a factor in the trade.

Why it matters

The Doncic trade was highly unpopular with Mavericks fans, who had hoped the young superstar would lead the team to championships. Cuban's admission that Kidd was involved in the decision-making process is likely to increase pressure on the coach, whose team has struggled this season despite the addition of several high-profile players.

The details

In the interview, Cuban said there were issues between the former GM Harrison and Doncic's team, and that Kidd's close relationship with Lakers star Anthony Davis was a factor in the trade. Cuban acknowledged that the decision to trade Doncic 'doesn't justify' the actions of the team's leadership.

  • The Mavericks traded Luka Doncic to the Lakers in February 2025.

The players

Mark Cuban

The owner of the Dallas Mavericks who revealed details about the Luka Doncic trade.

Jason Kidd

The head coach of the Dallas Mavericks who was involved in the decision to trade Luka Doncic.

Nico Harrison

The former general manager of the Dallas Mavericks who was responsible for executing the Luka Doncic trade.

Luka Doncic

The star player of the Dallas Mavericks who was traded to the Los Angeles Lakers in 2025.

Anthony Davis

The star player of the Los Angeles Lakers who had a close relationship with Mavericks coach Jason Kidd.

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What they’re saying

“I think there was animosity between our former general manager and some people on Luka's team, his agent, some people that worked around them. I don't think they got along. I think there were issues that J-Kidd coached with Anthony Davis and was close to him, and Nico was close to AD.”

— Mark Cuban, Owner, Dallas Mavericks

What’s next

The Mavericks' struggles this season are likely to increase fan pressure on the team's leadership, especially head coach Jason Kidd, who is now confirmed to have played a role in the controversial Luka Doncic trade. It remains to be seen if the team will make any changes to its coaching staff or front office in the offseason.

The takeaway

The revelation that Mavericks coach Jason Kidd was involved in the decision to trade away star player Luka Doncic has further eroded trust between the team's leadership and its fanbase. The Mavericks will need to address this issue and rebuild their relationship with the community if they hope to regain their status as a top contender in the NBA.