NBA Commissioner Adam Silver expressed on Saturday that he understands the frustration of fans regarding the Dallas Mavericks’ recent decision involving Luka Doncic’s trade. He clarified that he does not feel the Mavericks acted with any hidden agenda in trading the 25-year-old point guard.

Silver remarked that Dallas GM Nico Harrison likely believed the move was in the “best interest” of the team.

“I empathize with the displeasure of the fans,” Silver stated during a press conference at All-Star Weekend. “I completely comprehend their feelings. Dallas reached the Finals last year, and I have a strong appreciation for Luka. It’s evident that he was genuinely shocked and disappointed by this development, which was clear from his body language.”

“That said, my sympathy also extends to the Mavericks organization. I’ve known Nico Harrison for quite some time from his previous role at Nike, and I’ve grown close to Patrick Dumont, our new governor in Dallas. One thing I can confirm is that whether or not this trade is ultimately deemed wise, they acted in what they believed to be the organization’s best interest.”

In light of the trade’s unpopularity, some frustrated fans have speculated that owners Miriam Adelson and Patrick Dumont intentionally moved Doncic to facilitate a franchise relocation. However, Silver dismissed these claims, emphasizing that he has no doubt about the owners’ intentions.

“I have zero information or belief regarding any hidden agendas. I firmly believe that the Dumont-Adelson family purchased the team to keep it in Dallas,” he stated.

Additionally, the commissioner revealed that he, like many others, was taken by surprise by the groundbreaking trade and experienced the news as a fan.

The details of the trade emerged quietly between Harrison and Los Angeles Lakers GM Rob Pelinka, catching the entire NBA community off guard since its announcement on February 1. While other components were included, the most significant aspect involved sending Doncic, a 25-year-old superstar in his prime, to the Los Angeles Lakers in return for 10-time All-Star Anthony Davis. Though Davis is an outstanding player who will bring value to the Mavericks, losing a franchise cornerstone was a considerable shock for fans and Doncic himself.

“To the Dallas fans, all I can offer is that only time will reveal whether this trade was a wise decision, but I encourage them to trust their organization,” Silver added.

“The team genuinely made this trade with conviction in what they believed was best for the organization. It’s easy to speculate whether they were right or wrong, but placing oneself in their position is complex. They are the ones managing the situation, and they have their philosophical approach on what is essential for winning championships, a perspective I’m not in a position to question.”

Watch Silver’s comments in the video below, starting at 3:03: