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[Saba Sports News] Luka Doncic’s father didn’t hold back in criticizing the Dallas Mavericks over their handling of his son’s trade to the Los Angeles Lakers.
Speaking on Slovenian television Sunday, Sasa Doncic—himself a former player and coach—called out the Mavericks for what he saw as disrespect and hypocrisy in their decision-making. He was particularly upset over claims that Luka’s conditioning played a role in the trade.
“I understand that sometimes you disagree with a certain philosophy or don’t like a particular player. That’s fine, I get it,” Sasa said. “But the secrecy, or even hypocrisy from some individuals, is what personally hurts me. Luka absolutely doesn’t deserve this. As far as I know, he sacrificed enormously. Now, people are making excuses and justifications—that’s unfair. Luka respected Dallas, he respected the city.”
Sasa also took issue with reports questioning Luka’s fitness, given the workload he carried.
“Last year, someone said he wasn’t in shape, yet he played 100 games, nearly 40 minutes each, with multiple defenders on him, taking a beating. And now you say this about him? That’s very unfair. You traded him—own your decision, but don’t make excuses.”
Reports surfaced after the trade suggesting the Mavericks had growing concerns about Luka’s conditioning, especially with a looming supermax extension.
Though he has only played 22 of 49 games this season due to injury, he appeared in 70 regular-season games last year and logged 22 more in the playoffs.
Doncic was reportedly blindsided by the trade, unaware discussions were even happening. His father’s frustration, combined with Luka’s own silence, hints at lingering hard feelings about how the situation was handled.