The page has officially been turned in Dallas. In his clearest public comments to date, Mavericks head coach Jason Kidd indicated that the organization has closed the book on the Luka Dončić era.
The remarks come after months of relentless speculation following the blockbuster trade that sent the former franchise cornerstone to the Los Angeles Lakers.
“Luka’s moved on and we’ve moved on,” Kidd stated bluntly, according to ESPN’s Dave McMenamin. “That’s the business of basketball, you got to move forward.”
The declaration signals a definitive end to one of the most dramatic storylines in recent NBA history and marks a new, forward-looking phase for the Mavericks franchise.
The End of an Era and a Stunning Rebuild
Dončić’s departure from Dallas in the 2025 offseason was a seismic event. The trade, which sent Dončić to the Lakers in exchange for a package centered on Anthony Davis, was framed as a mutual decision for a fresh start after years of playoff frustrations.
For the Mavericks, it was a painful but strategic pivot, swapping a generational offensive talent for an elite, championship-proven big man to pair with their other young star, Jalen Green.
“After a franchise-altering trade, there’s a natural period of reflection and second-guessing,” said one team insider. “Coach Kidd’s message is that period is over.
Looking Ahead: The New Core in Dallas
Kidd’s directive to “move forward” is backed by the tangible new identity the Mavericks are forging. The post-Luka era is being built around:
- Anthony Davis: The 8-time All-Star and 2020 champion has assumed a leadership role, providing elite interior defense, scoring, and the veteran presence the young roster lacked.
- Jalen Green: The explosive guard, acquired in a previous trade, has flourished with increased responsibility, emerging as a primary offensive option and one of the league’s most exciting young talents.
- A Deep, Athletic Roster: General Manager Nico Harrison used the assets from the Dončić deal to construct a more balanced, defensive-minded, and athletic team, a stark contrast to the heliocentric style of the previous era.
The Challenge of Truly Moving On
While Kidd can mandate a shift in the media narrative, truly moving on is a longer process for the franchise and its fans. Dončić was a once-in-a-generation talent who delivered historic performances and unforgettable moments.
The ultimate success of this new direction will be measured in playoff victories and championship contention. Until the Mavericks prove they can win at the highest level without number 77, a segment of the fanbase will always wonder “what if.”
For now, Jason Kidd has drawn a clear line. The Luka Dončić chapter, for all its breathtaking highlights and ultimate frustrations, is closed.
The Dallas Mavericks are no longer looking in the rearview mirror. As Kidd succinctly put it, the business of basketball demands it, and the work of building a new contender is already underway.