Nowitzki Urges Mavericks to Move Forward After GM Dismissal

In a significant shake-up for the Dallas Mavericks, the franchise has parted ways with general manager Nico Harrison. Mavs legend and Hall of Famer Dirk Nowitzki weighed in on the decision, expressing that the team should have made this move earlier in the summer to avoid unwanted "negative energy" as they embark on the new era of Cooper Flagg.

Speaking on the Amazon Prime pregame broadcast on Friday, Nowitzki emphasized that it was "time to move on now." His remarks come in light of the franchise's struggles this season, which currently sees the Mavericks sitting at a disappointing 3-9 record. This rough start can be attributed partly to the fallout from Harrison's controversial trade, which sent five-time All-NBA player Luka Dončić to the Los Angeles Lakers last February.

Since joining the Lakers, Dončić has thrived, averaging an impressive 34.9 points, 9.1 rebounds, and 8.9 assists per game, contributing to the Lakers’ strong position at fifth in the Western Conference with an 8-4 record. Meanwhile, the Mavericks have struggled offensively, ranking last in points per game and offensive efficiency, according to Basketball Reference.

The Dallas team is also grappling with the absence of nine-time All-Star guard Kyrie Irving, who is currently recovering from a torn ACL sustained in March. Furthermore, Anthony Davis, the centerpiece acquired in the Dončić deal, has only appeared in five games this season due to a left calf strain.

Despite these setbacks, the franchise has reason for optimism with Cooper Flagg, the first overall pick who has made an impact with averages of 15.1 points, 6.8 rebounds, 3.3 assists, and 1.4 steals per game. As the Mavericks look to the future, Nowitzki's comments reflect a desire for the team to forge ahead and fully embrace this new chapter.