Everything Nico Harrison touches turns into news.

The situation surrounding the Dallas Mavericks’ general manager has taken a turn for the worse, especially in light of recent news regarding his management decisions.

 

Nico HarrisonNico Harrison (Photo via Imagn Images)

Recently, Harrison fired Dallas’ director of health and performance, Casey Smith.

As per reports, Harrison dismissed Smith over a video call while Smith was with his terminally ill mother. While Nico wants to call it professionalism, many are calling it a lack of empathy.

However, Smith had a long and storied legacy with the Mavericks. Before sacking, he had served in the organization for nearly 20 years and had strong relationships.

According to ESPN’s report, “Harrison informed Smith that they needed to meet.” Smith replied that he couldn’t meet him in person as he is in his hometown Ohio. The Mavs staffer informed Harrison that he is with his gravely ill mother for her final few days of her life.

Nico set up a video meeting with Smith to inform him about his termination.

“Smith was then informed that his services in Dallas were no longer needed, ending a nearly two-decade tenure with the franchise. The reason for the dismissal centered on Smith being ‘too negative.’ According to sources briefed on the discussion who interpreted the vague reasoning to mean Smith wasn’t enough of a yes-man,” as per ESPN.

Ever since the Mavericks traded Luka Doncic, there has been widespread criticism around Nico. And after the recent staffer firing, he does not seem to please many.

Charles Barkley Rips Nico Harrison For His Press Conference

Charles Barkley and Nico HarrisonCharles Barkley and Nico Harrison (Photo via Imagn Images)
After trading fan favorite Luka Doncic earlier this season, Nico Harrison really caught the ire of the Mavericks’ fan base. And only recently, even some of his friends are weighing in.

In a recent press conference on April 21, Harrison admitted that his thoughts backfired in the controversial trade.

“I did know that Luka was important to the fan base. I didn’t quite know it to what level,” he said.

However, this statement didn’t sit well with basketball commentator Charles Barkley. The former NBA legend, who encouraged Harrison to step back from the spotlight for a bit.

“Listen man, I consider you a friend of mine …I wish you nothing but the best. Man, don’t do no more press conferences … I’ve got sympathy and love for you, but I have zero idea what you’re trying to do,” Barkley said.

Harrison has been hearing “Fire Nico” chants from the stands ever since the February 2 trade. The Mavericks wrapped up their season with a tough 120-106 loss to the Memphis Grizzlies in the NBA Play-In Tournament.

Meanwhile, Doncic and the Lakers have put on quite a show, securing the No. 3 seed in the Western Conference playoffs. That’s a total backfire.