NBA Commissioner Adam Silver appeared on ESPN`s `The Pat McAfee Show` on Thursday to discuss various topics before the playoffs. Unsurprisingly, the recent Luka Dončić trade, which remains a major talking point, was among the subjects Silver addressed.
Silver clarified that he did not have the power to block or reverse the trade. He explained that the only instance of a commissioner vetoing a trade was when David Stern, acting as the owner of the Hornets in 2011, prevented Chris Paul from being traded to the Los Angeles Lakers. Silver emphasized that his position with the Mavericks is different.
During the conversation, Silver expressed understanding of the fans` feelings. “I understand the fans` passion. I understand why Dallas Mavericks fans are so upset,” Silver stated. However, he also attempted to support the Mavericks` ownership and management.
Silver`s recognition of fan frustration, despite his inability to directly criticize a team`s personnel decisions, suggests that the trade was surprising even to high-ranking officials within the league.
Earlier in the week, Mavericks CEO Rick Welts and Harrison held a private press conference to explain the Dončić trade decision to reporters, but their efforts seemingly worsened public perception.
The Mavericks recently won against the Sacramento Kings in the Play-In Tournament and are set to play the Memphis Grizzlies. Regardless of the upcoming game`s result, Mavericks fans are likely to continue expressing their discontent about the trade.
Jasper Hawthorne