The Dallas Mavericks are facing intense scrutiny following their controversial trade of Luka Doncic to the Los Angeles Lakers, igniting allegations of NBA rigging. The trade, which sent Doncic and Maxi Kleber to Los Angeles in exchange for Anthony Davis, Max Christie, and a 2029 first-round pick, raised eyebrows since Davis, though a 10-time All-Star, is injury-prone at 32. Meanwhile, Doncic, now 26, recently led the Mavericks to the NBA Finals.

After a shocking win in the 2025 NBA Draft Lottery with only a 1.8% chance for the top pick, fans expressed growing skepticism about the lottery's integrity. Mavericks forward P.J. Washington's eye emoji reaction on social media captured the sentiment perfectly. The Mavericks appear set to draft Duke superstar Cooper Flagg, turning their roster into a formidable trio alongside Davis and Kyrie Irving. Fans are questioning if the NBA promised Dallas the top pick as compensation for Doncic's move, raising concerns over perceived corruption within league operations.