The Dallas Mavericks have been under fire since they traded away their franchise player in Luka Dončić. With Anthony Davis currently sidelined indefinitely while Dončić is healthy and on the court for the Lakers, the trade looks even more confusing in this light.
While general manager Nico Harrison has taken his fair share of public backlash due to his press conference and public quotes, it seems Mavericks owner Patrick Dumont is now in the spotlight for the wrong reasons.
Dumont could hear the rumblings from the media and Mavericks faithful, so he attempted to quell some of the trepidation with his reasoning behind the trade. Dumont tried his best to ease any concerns the fans might have, but it only seemed to make matters worse. Dumont’s comments were plastered over every news headline, showcasing that the owner seemed out of touch.
Patrick Dumont’s Backlash From Former Mavericks Executive
Bob Voulgaris, a former director of quantitative research for the Mavericks, pulled no punches when appearing on the “Dumb Zone Podcast.” Speaking candidly on the perception of the trade and the fallout, Voulgaris would tear into Dumont, especially when considering his statement about Dončić’s drive and what it takes to win.
Bob Voulgaris, former director of quantitative research for the Mavericks, destroys Patrick Dumont and his comments about Luka Dončić.
via @thedumbzone podcast. pic.twitter.com/YBZcwLHL2Q
— Showtime Luka (@showtimeluka) February 12, 2025
“You inherited a pretty good roster, generational superstars. Have a little bit more humility in knowing what it takes to win. Nico (Harrison) is in a tough position so I can empathize with him. But the owner, this guy is the definition of…He married into money.
“This guy does not look like he’s ever denied himself the luxury of an extra meal. So for him to talk about what it takes to win and to reference Shaq as the ultimate example is just so tone-deaf.”
Could Dumont Have Other Plans?
Dumont’s typically kept a low profile since the Adelson-Dumont family purchased the majority controlling interest in the Mavericks in 2023, but things have changed quickly, which has raised eyebrows. The rumor mill has been buzzing that the Mavericks could eventually end up in Vegas, which could make Dumont’s comments more striking as time goes on.
The public comments from both Harrison and Dumont showcase an organization that doesn’t know what their fan base wants, which has made them public enemies No. 1 and 2 for the fans and former executives. If the Mavericks move from Dallas eventually, this will be looked upon as the moment that everything changed, for better or worse. Dumont has denied the Vegas rumors, but time will tell.
