"Just sick and tired of hearing it" - PJ Washington makes feelings known on ‘fire Nico’ backlash as Mavericks battle season woes

The Dallas Mavericks shook the NBA community when they traded Luka Doncic to the LA Lakers. Mavericks general manager Nico Harrison faced intense backlash from fans and critics alike following the trade, with many calling for his firing.

Following the Mavericks' 130-125 home loss to the Philadelphia 76ers on Sunday, a fan allegedly screamed "fire Nico" during the game. Forward PJ Washington responded to the issue, as reported by Joey Mistretta of Clutch Points.

“At the end of the day the trades happened, we understand we have a new team now. All that ‘fire Nico’ stuff, we’re just sick and tired of hearing it,” Washington said of fans' criticism of Nico Harrison at Mavs games. "We just want to go out and play and the fans to support us."

The trade has been widely criticized as many questioned Harrison's decision-making. To make matters worse, the team's injury woes have only added fuel to the fire, as newly acquired center Anthony Davis has been sidelined with a left adductor strain.

Davis himself addressed the backlash. He asserted that Harrison understood the criticism and is in good spirits despite the challenges, however, his comments have done little to quell the outrage from fans.

Harrison reportedly received death threats and racist messages, which the team condemned. With their chances of making the postseason slipping away, the 2024 Western Conference champions have a lot of work to do to regain their fans' trust.

Washington, in the loss to the Sixers, recorded 29 points, 12 rebounds and two assists. Naji Marshall added 21 points, eight rebounds and six assists.

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Mavericks' Max Christie addresses "fire Nico" chants

Dallas Mavericks forward Max Christie weighed in on the tension between some fans and general manager Nico Harrison. In his postgame press conference, he urged his teammates to stay focused amid the controversy.

"Definitely not pleasant to hear ... We're professionals and our job is to come out here and perform regardless of the circumstances that we're in."

The latest loss to Philadelphia marked their eighth loss in 10 games, putting their playoff hopes in jeopardy. Despite their struggles, they still cling on to the final play-in spot.

They visit the Indiana Pacers next on Wednesday. Tip-off is slated for 6 p.m. EST at Gainbridge Fieldhouse.