Ex-Dallas Mavericks coach Don Nelson calls Luka Doncic trade ‘tremendous mistake’
Former Dallas Mavericks head coach and general manager Don Nelson received the 2025 Chuck Daly Lifetime Achievement Award Sunday, June 8, and he wore some special shoes while accepting the award.
Nelson received the award while wearing Doncic’s signature Jordan brand sneakers in protest of the Mavs’ trade of Luka Doncic.
Nelson, who referred to Doncic as “a dear friend,” called the trade “a tremendous mistake,” and explained that it was the teachings of NBA legend Red Auerbach that made him oppose the trade.
According to Nelson, Auerbach told him that when you have a great player, you don’t trade them, you keep them for a lifetime, and said that’s always been his philosophy ever since he heard that advice.
Fans and pundits alike have criticized the Mavs’ front office for trading Doncic — one of the NBA’s best talents — to the Los Angeles Lakers. Now, a Hall-of-Fame former Mavs head coach has added his opinion.
Doncic posted about Nelson on his Instagram Stories on Monday, congratulating Nelson on the award, saying, “Nice shoes!” in response to the former Mavs coach wearing Doncic’s signature shoes.
About the Chuck Daly Lifetime Achievement Award
The Chuck Daly Lifetime Achievement Award honors coaches who not only had an outstanding NBA career but also showcased integrity and competitive excellence and tirelessly promoted the game of basketball.
Nelson, who coached the Mavs from 1997-2005, is one of only two coaches in league history to lead three teams — the Mavs, Milwaukee Bucks and Golden State Warriors — to 250 wins.
