Jason Kidd Denies Involvement in Luka Dončić Trade, Contradicts Mark Cuban

Mo. Basuony

Published: April 9, 2026 4:28 PM ET

Dallas coach Jason Kidd rejected claims that he helped engineer the Feb. 1, 2025, trade that sent Luka Dončić to Los Angeles. He said he learned of the deal at the last minute. Kidd also disputed comments made by former Mavericks owner Mark Cuban.

In a public denial, Jason Kidd Denies Involvement in Luka Dončić Trade, Contradicts Mark Cuban, the coach said he was not part of the internal process. He called the accusation incorrect and emphasized the team’s need to move forward.

Kidd’s version of events

Kidd recounted being summoned by then-general manager Nico Harrison shortly before the trade went public. He said Harrison told him the transaction would be announced at 11 p.m.

The initial reports appeared at 11:12 p.m. CT on Feb. 1, 2025. Kidd said he was informed only at that late stage. He added he contacted Cuban after hearing the podcast comments.

Trade details and early fallout

The deal sent Luka Dončić to the Los Angeles Lakers. Dallas received Anthony Davis, Max Christie and a 2029 first-round pick.

Anthony Davis debuted for Dallas about a week after the trade.
Davis suffered a left adductor strain in his first Dallas game.
He played 29 games with the Mavericks before being moved to Washington.
Luka Dončić is averaging 33.5 points per game and leads the NBA in scoring.

The Lakers sit third in the Western Conference. Dončić exited a recent game with a left hamstring issue. His availability for the next meeting in Dallas was uncertain.

Team status and roster direction

The Mavericks have fallen from contender status since the trade. Kidd said the team’s record does not match expectations. He highlighted that the group has competed in 43 clutch games this season.

Kidd named rookie forward Cooper Flagg as a focal point for rebuilding. He said the organization will try to construct around Flagg moving forward.

Front office changes and ownership

The Mavericks fired Nico Harrison in November amid a 3-8 start this season. Dallas is conducting a search for a new head of basketball operations. Team officials aim to name a hire before the draft.

Kidd received a contract extension in October. The club blocked his interview with the New York Knicks earlier. All signs point to Kidd returning for a sixth season as head coach.

Mark Cuban sold his majority stake in December 2024 for $3.5 billion to Miriam Adelson and her son-in-law, Patrick Dumont. Cuban told the same podcast he does not regret selling the team. He said he regrets who bought it.

Kidd praised Dumont, calling him the best owner in the league. He also recalled winning the 2011 championship in Dallas while playing under Cuban.

Filmogaz.com will continue to follow developments as the Mavericks rebuild and the franchise searches for new basketball leadership.