The 10 worst front office moves by the Dallas Mavericks since 2000

By Cal Durrett | Aug 21, 2023

PHOENIX, ARIZONA - OCTOBER 19: Dallas Mavericks owner Mark Cuban looks on during the first half of the NBA game at Footprint Center on October 19, 2022 in Phoenix, Arizona. The Suns defeated the Mavericks 107-105. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Christian Petersen/Getty Images) /

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Since the year 2000, the Dallas Mavericks have been ranked as one of the most successful teams in the NBA. That coincides with Hall of Famer Dirk Nowitzki emerging as a superstar after being drafted in 1998 and the team being bought by Mark Cuban. Cuban is one of the most well-known owners in North American sports and has helped turn around a once struggling franchise.

With his deep pockets and a willingness to spend, he’s helped keep the team relevant far longer than most could have expected. That success was long overdue since it followed 20 years of losing. Dallas won just 40 percent of their games prior to the year 2000, before a dramatic improvement in the new century.

However, there have been plenty of missteps along the way. Mistakes happen, particularly when trying to build a contender year after year. Still, there have been some egregious ones that have hampered the Mavericks’ success and kept them from winning multiple championships. This is despite having many talented players over the years. Now, let’s look at the 10 worst front office moves by the Mavericks since 2000.