Mavericks CEO Rick Welts Breaks Silence on Luka Dončić Trade: ‘No Regrets, Only Growth and Moving Forward With Purpose’

The Dallas Mavericks made headlines around the world when they finalized the blockbuster trade that sent superstar Luka Dončić to the Los Angeles Lakers. It was a decision that rattled the foundation of the Mavericks franchise and left fans across North Texas reeling with emotion. Many questioned the motives, timing, and long-term implications of parting ways with a generational talent who had come to define the team’s identity.

Now, Mavericks CEO Rick Welts has broken his silence in his first public comments since the deal, offering a measured yet reflective perspective on what led to the trade and what lies ahead for the organization.

“You can’t have fears or regrets in this business,” Welts said at a press availability outside the Mavericks’ practice facility. “It’s all about how you move forward. I learned a lot through this process, but more than anything, I learned about the depth of the connection between Mavericks fans and this team.”

Welts, who joined the Mavericks’ front office in 2024 after a legendary executive career with the Golden State Warriors and Phoenix Suns, had been relatively quiet during the weeks of speculation and eventual execution of the Dončić trade. His comments now offer insight into the rationale behind the move, and the emotional weight that came with it.

Luka Dončić was not just another player. Since being drafted by the Mavericks in 2018, he quickly ascended to superstardom, becoming one of the most electrifying talents in NBA history before the age of 25. With multiple All-Star appearances, playoff heroics, and jaw-dropping performances, Luka was the face of the Mavericks’ future.

But behind the scenes, things were more complicated.

“There were internal discussions for months,” Welts revealed. “You never go into a decision like this lightly, especially with a player like Luka, who means so much to the fans and to the city. But at the end of the day, we had to take a hard look at where we were, where we’re going, and how we could best position ourselves for sustainable success.”

The decision to move Dončić came amid rumors of tension between the star guard and the organization. Some insiders cited philosophical differences, clashes with coaching strategies, and a desire on Luka’s part to compete for titles sooner rather than later. When the Lakers approached Dallas with a package that included young assets, draft capital, and expiring contracts, the Mavericks front office was faced with a crossroad.

“It’s never going to be a perfect equation,” Welts said. “You’re giving up a transcendent talent, and in return, you’re asking your fanbase to trust your long-term vision. But it’s a balance between loyalty to the now and commitment to the future.”

Despite the rationale behind the trade, the backlash was swift and emotional. From jersey burnings to social media outrage, Mavericks fans expressed heartbreak, confusion, and fury. Some called it the biggest mistake in franchise history. Others felt betrayed.

Welts, however, encouraged empathy and understanding.

“This isn’t about who wins the next press cycle,” he said. “This is about building something meaningful. We respect and admire Luka and always will. But we also owe it to our players, our coaches, and our fans to commit fully to the next chapter.”

That next chapter begins with a retooled Mavericks roster. With the assets received in the Lakers deal, Dallas now boasts a promising young core, including standout rookie guard Marcus Lattimore, rising wing Terrance Reid, and a trio of unprotected first-round picks between 2026 and 2029.

Still, even as the front office preaches patience and progress, the shadow of Luka looms large. His debut in purple and gold was a spectacle, dazzling Los Angeles fans with a triple-double performance and signature flair. NBA analysts immediately declared the Lakers the new title favorites, with Dončić taking center stage in Hollywood.

“I won’t lie—watching him play in another uniform was surreal,” Welts admitted. “But I also watched with pride. We were part of his journey, and nothing changes that. We wish him nothing but the best.”

For many in Dallas, that sentiment is hard to digest. Dončić had become the city’s adopted son, often compared to Dirk Nowitzki in terms of legacy and cultural impact. His exit leaves a void, both emotionally and competitively. And yet, as Welts emphasized, the Mavericks are not dwelling in despair.

“We’re going to honor our past while forging our future,” he said. “We’re not trying to replace Luka. That’s not possible. We’re trying to build a new identity that reflects the values of this organization—grit, resilience, unity, and passion.”

Mavericks head coach Jason Kidd, who coached Dončić for four seasons and maintained a strong relationship with the Slovenian star, echoed Welts’ sentiment.

“Luka’s a once-in-a-generation player. That’s obvious,” Kidd said. “But I love this group we have now. They’re young, hungry, and ready to prove themselves. That’s how dynasties are born—not just by talent, but by trust and toughness.”

Still, the road ahead is uncertain. NBA rebuilds are rarely smooth, and even with high draft picks and promising talent, there are no guarantees. Welts knows this better than anyone, having seen it all during his time with the Warriors, where a bold commitment to development eventually produced a championship dynasty.

“Patience is everything,” he said. “And patience doesn’t mean complacency. We’re going to compete every night. We’re going to coach harder. We’re going to scout smarter. We’re going to build with intention.”

One question that continues to linger among fans and media alike is whether the Mavericks would ever consider reuniting with Dončić down the line. Could a future return to Dallas be on the horizon?

Welts remained diplomatic.

“In this business, never say never,” he smiled. “But right now, Luka has a new team, and we have a new mission. We’re focused on honoring that mission.”

It’s a mission that will require buy-in from fans, players, and stakeholders across the franchise. And that’s something Welts says he’s fully committed to fostering.

“What I saw in the days after the trade was heartbreak, but also love,” he reflected. “The way fans showed up, the way they spoke out—it reminded me why this job matters. It reminded me how powerful sports can be.”

As for regrets? Welts insists there are none.

“Regret suggests you made the wrong choice. Fear suggests you doubt your own direction. We don’t operate that way,” he said. “We make informed decisions, and then we go forward—together. That’s what leadership looks like.”

Whether the Luka Dončić trade will go down as a franchise-defining misstep or the first bold step toward a new Mavericks dynasty remains to be seen. But one thing is certain: Rick Welts and the Mavericks are not looking back. They are facing forward—eyes open, hearts steady, and hopes high.