NBA Trade Rumor: Nico Harrison to Right a Wrong and Bring Luka Doncic Back to the Mavericks From Lakers? Analyst Predicts Dallas' Trade Proposals

Having obtained the right to make the No.1 pick in the NBA draft, it is asserted that the Dallas Mavericks will go after the hottest property, Cooper Flagg. While it comes as a reasonable move, there are other possibilities as well, including a wild one. What if Nico Harrison makes amends for a decision that has attracted immense flak towards him?

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Luka Doncic to Return to the Mavericks?

Mavericks and Harrison took the bold step of trading Luka Doncic to LA Lakers in February 2025 in exchange for Anthony Davis. The decision was straight-up labelled as preposterous by fans and experts, as Doncic was the talisman of the franchise and the one who took them to the NBA finals in the previous season. Harrison is getting the stick from followers of the Mavericks all over the world but with the No.1 pick under his bag, he can make the fans happy by signing the Slovenian guard from the Lakers.

The Ringer’s Bill Simmons put together several trade proposals for the Mavericks to consider for the No. 1 pick. One wild idea has the Lakers sending Doncic back to the Mavericks for the No. 1 pick.

“There’s three (trade ideas), and I don’t think they should trade Flagg, I think they should keep him,” the analyst noted in a May 13, 2025, episode of “The Bill Simmons Podcast.” “I’m just gonna say that. But would you trade him to get Luka back would be the first trade. That would be the funniest outcome of all it, right? That would be hilarious.

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Unlikely Move

While it sounds ideal, it is unlikely to happen. Considering all the media attention the move included, a reverse could have further repercussions. Plus, it will also prove that Harrison was wrong to send Doncic away, putting further questions on his decision-making. Thus, Mavericks and Luka Doncic were a dream love story while it lasted, but it is safe to state both have moved on.