DALLAS — “Fire Nico” Takes Over North Texas
In North Texas, the phrase “Fire Nico” has transformed into a viral sensation. Dallas Mavericks fans are expressing their frustration over general manager Nico Harrison’s controversial trade of Luka Dončić to the Los Angeles Lakers. Chants can be heard throughout the city, including at Dallas Stars hockey games and FC Dallas soccer matches, and even at Medieval Times.
There’s now “Fire Nico” chants at Medieval Times!!! pic.twitter.com/JTm408mxEp
— MavsMamacita (@AuroraF34508886) March 9, 2025
Player Reactions and Frustration
During a recent game against the Philadelphia 76ers, a fan shouted the “Fire Nico” slogan while Mavericks forward P.J. Washington was shooting free throws. Washington responded, stating that the Mavericks players are weary of the ongoing calls for Harrison’s dismissal. “At the end of the day, the trade has happened,” he noted. “We just want to play and need the fans’ support, no matter who’s on the floor.”
Washington returned after a seven-game absence and scored 29 points with 12 rebounds, but the Mavericks fell to the 76ers with a score of 130-125. This loss placed the Mavericks (33-36) three games under .500 for the first time this season, with only five of their remaining 13 games scheduled at home.
Impact of Recent Trades
Following the shocking trade of Dončić, the Mavericks also dealt Quentin Grimes and a 2025 second-round pick to the 76ers for Caleb Martin. Grimes excelled in his new role, scoring 28 points and assisting six times in a recent game. He has averaged 19.9 points in his first 16 games with Philadelphia.
Grimes attributed his recent success to increased responsibilities and trust from his new coach, saying, “It’s a lot more on my shoulders, and I feel like I’ve responded well.” Meanwhile, Martin has played only five games for Dallas due to injury issues.
Looking Ahead
The Mavericks entered the season with high hopes for a championship, but both teams — Dallas and Philadelphia — are now at risk of missing the Play-In Tournament. As the Mavericks struggle to maintain their position, team leadership hopes to regroup for the next season. Coach Nick Nurse emphasized that the current difficulties should serve as motivation to improve moving forward.
Despite the turmoil, Grimes remains optimistic, stating, “Trades happen at the end of the day. It all worked out for sure in my favor, so (I) can’t complain about it.” However, the Mavericks will need to navigate the trade’s fallout, ongoing injuries, and fan discontent as they look towards the future.
