NBA commissioner Adam Silver is adamant the Dallas Mavericks had no "ulterior motives" for trading Luka Doncic to the Los Angeles Lakers. (More Sports News)
♌It marked the first time in NBA history that two reigning All-NBA Team players were traded for each other during the mid-season
NBA commissioner Adam Silver is adamant the Dallas Mavericks had no "ulterior motives" for trading Luka Doncic to the Los Angeles Lakers. (More Sports News)
The five-time NBA All-Star made the shock switch earlier this month in a deal that saw Anthony Davis move in the other direction.
💎It marked the first time in NBA history that two reigning All-NBA Team players were traded for each other during the mid-season.
🐼Silver said he was surprised by the trade, but has urged Mavericks supporters to give the franchise's general manager Nico Harrison and owner Patrick Dumont the benefit of the doubt.
♚"I have absolutely no knowledge or belief there were any ulterior motives," Silver said during his annual news conference before All-Star Saturday night festivities at Chase Center.
💟"I have no doubt whatsoever that [the owners are] committed to the long-term success of that franchise. In terms of anger with the fan base, I'm empathetic.
⛎"In terms of the Dallas fans, all I can say to them is again, time will tell whether it was a smart trade, but I think they should believe in their organisation.
🐬"Their organisation truly made a trade that they believed was in the best interest of the organisation, and in many cases, again, it doesn't mean they were right or wrong, but it's very difficult to put yourself in their shoes.
ℱ"They are living with the situation. They have a philosophical belief in what's necessary ultimately to win championships, and I'm not in a position to second-guess that."