Cuban responds to report about concerns Doncic might leave

Dallas Mavericks owner Mark Cuban Kirby Lee-USA TODAY Sports

Mark Cuban responds to report Mavericks are concerned about Luka Doncic's future in Dallas

By Erin Walsh | Last updated 6/14/21

Tim Cato and Sam Amick of The Athletic reported Monday that there are internal concerns within the Mavericks that the "front office's dysfunction" may hurt Luka Doncic's relationship with the franchise and impact his desire to remain in Dallas long term.

The Athletic report added that Doncic "snapped" at director of quantitative research and development Haralabos Voulgaris during a game in February, saying, "Don't f--king tell me to calm down" after a turnover.

That wasn't the only incident that has occurred between the two. According to The Athletic, Doncic told teammates in April that Voulgaris was "quitting on them" after he walked out of a loss to the New York Knicks early. Their relationship is considered "inflamed."

Mavericks owner Mark Cuban dismissed the report with two simple words:

Total bullshit https://t.co/vBpYcZTTkI
— Mark Cuban (@mcuban) June 14, 2021

Doncic is eligible for a supermax extension this offseason and hinted earlier this month that he plans to sign the deal.

Early estimates have the rookie extension this offseason for Luka Doncic crossing the $200 million threshold over five years and the Mavericks, league sources say, naturally intend to offer it Doncic once free agency begins in August.
— Marc Stein (@TheSteinLine) June 7, 2021

It's hard to imagine the 22-year-old playing anywhere else, and the Mavericks will undoubtedly do everything in their power to retain him long term.

Dallas hasn't won a playoff series since winning the NBA title in 2011. If the Mavs' playoff woes continue for the next few years, then maybe Doncic will consider moving on. For now, it certainly seems like he's staying put.

More must-reads: