Dallas almost had one of the most spectacular duos in NBA history. Dirk Nowitzki is even said to have signaled in the talks that he would not be untouchable for a deal himself.
The aim was to bring Kobe Bryant to Dallas and create a star duo that would have made a lasting impression on the NBA. Negotiations were apparently already well advanced at the time.
Cuban described how a package consisting of Josh Howard, Jason Terry and several first-round picks was on the verge of bringing Bryant to the Mavericks. Even Lakers owner Jerry Buss is said to have already agreed to the deal. During his time on “Dancing with the Stars”, Cuban reportedly continued the talks in every free minute and even had the impression internally that the trade was through.
However, the deal fell through shortly before it was concluded. According to Cuban, Lakers GM Mitch Kupchak intervened and ultimately dissuaded Bryant from making the move. As a result, Dallas was denied the hoped-for match-up between Bryant and Nowitzki.
“Would also trade me for Kobe”: Nowitzki offered – Mavs wanted the duo
Nowitzki’s role is particularly noteworthy. According to Cuban, the German is said to have said: “You can trade me. I would also trade me for Kobe.” However, the Mavericks did not pursue the goal of getting Bryant for their franchise player, but wanted both superstars to play together in Dallas.
Despite this, the careers of both superstars continued to be extremely successful, even if they were never able to celebrate their greatest successes together. Kobe Bryant, who had already won three titles before 2007, won two more championships in 2009 and 2010. Dirk Nowitzki, on the other hand, led the Mavericks to the title in 2011 – on his legendary run, Dallas even eliminated Bryant and the Lakers by sweep, among others.
