When the Dallas Mavericks pulled off a draft-night trade in 2018 to acquire Luka Dončić, it was viewed as a bold and risky move. Now, years later, with Luka having blossomed into a perennial MVP candidate, a generational talent, and the unquestioned face of the franchise, that decision looks nothing short of brilliant. Recently, Mavericks legend and former head coach and general manager Don Nelson — the architect behind some of the team’s biggest moves — shared his candid thoughts on the deal that brought Luka to Dallas.
And true to form, Nelson didn’t hold back.
“We Knew He Was Special”
Speaking at a charity golf tournament in Maui, where he now lives a quiet, relaxed post-NBA life, Nelson was asked what he thought of the Mavs’ 2018 draft-day trade — which sent Trae Young and a future first-round pick to Atlanta in exchange for Luka Dončić, then a 19-year-old European star with Real Madrid.
“I’ll tell you what,” Nelson began, with his signature grin. “The moment I saw him play, I knew he wasn’t just another European experiment. That kid had it — the confidence, the vision, the poise. And the Mavs made the right move, no doubt about it.”
Don Nelson is no stranger to identifying unique basketball talent. Throughout his storied career, he championed positionless basketball, helped unlock the potential of players like Dirk Nowitzki and Steve Nash, and introduced small-ball lineups long before it was fashionable. He knows talent when he sees it — and he saw it early in Luka.
Skepticism at the Time
At the time of the trade, many were unsure if Luka Dončić’s game would translate to the NBA. Critics questioned his athleticism and whether his success in the EuroLeague — where he was named MVP and won a championship — would carry over to the world’s most competitive league.
Don Nelson acknowledged that skepticism. “There’s always doubt when it comes to guys who didn’t come through the NCAA system. It’s a different pace, different style of play,” he said. “But people forgot — the EuroLeague is no joke. That’s grown-man basketball, and Luka was dominating it at 18. That should’ve told people something.”
In the same breath, Nelson praised the front office for taking the risk. “It takes guts to bet on someone people don’t fully understand yet. The Mavs had the vision and the conviction. And now look where they are.”
Praise for Luka’s Growth
Since arriving in Dallas, Luka has quickly become one of the league’s brightest stars. A four-time All-Star before the age of 25, he’s made All-NBA First Team multiple times and has consistently been among the league leaders in points, assists, and usage. His ability to control the tempo of a game — with a mix of patience, creativity, and cold-blooded scoring — is rare.
Nelson had nothing but admiration for Luka’s growth. “You don’t just wake up one day and average 32 points a game while making it look effortless. That’s hard work. That’s hours in the gym. That’s studying the game. Luka’s got a basketball brain most guys don’t develop until their 30s.”
He also marveled at Luka’s mental toughness. “He’s got that fire. He’s not afraid of the moment. Whether it’s Game 7 on the road or a regular-season game in January, he competes the same way. That’s what makes legends.”
A Franchise Cornerstone
When asked what Luka’s presence means for the Mavericks franchise long-term, Nelson was unequivocal. “He’s their rock. Their future. Luka gives Dallas a real shot to contend for a championship every single year, and that’s not something you can say about many players. The city loves him, the fans love him, and I think he loves being a Maverick. That matters.”
Nelson compared the Luka trade to the franchise’s previous turning point: drafting Dirk Nowitzki in 1998. “I see the same loyalty, the same pride in representing Dallas,” he said. “Dirk built something that lasted. Luka’s doing the same thing — just in his own way.”
He did, however, offer a piece of advice to the Mavericks’ front office. “They’ve got to keep building around him. The NBA’s a team game. Luka can carry you far, but no one wins it alone. Just ask Dirk. You need that right mix of guys who complement your star. If Dallas does that, they’re gonna be dangerous for a long time.”
Reflecting on Legacy
Don Nelson, now 84, has become something of an elder statesman for the game. Though he’s stepped away from the daily grind of coaching and front-office work, his insight is still sought after and respected. He watches the league closely and said he still roots for the Mavs every chance he gets.
“I may be on an island these days, playing poker and growing my hair long,” he joked. “But I’m always watching. I love this team. And Luka — he’s special. I’ve been around the game long enough to know when you’re witnessing greatness in the making. That’s what this is.”
Final Thoughts
When Don Nelson speaks, it’s worth listening. The man who helped shape the modern game and built some of the Mavericks’ greatest rosters sees Luka Dončić not just as a great player, but as the centerpiece of Dallas’ next great era.
The Luka trade — once questioned by some — is now viewed as one of the smartest moves in franchise history. And for a team still chasing its next championship, having the blessing and belief of a legend like Nelson only adds to the sense that something special is unfolding.
“Dallas got it right,” Nelson said, smiling again. “And the best part? Luka’s just getting started.”
