Luka Dealt to Lakers: Nico Harrison is a Basketball Terrorist

[Reunion Mav]

Yep, "and then what happened" will have a considerable impact on the future narrative.

But that is going to be true from both directions. 

As you mention, if Luka wins a couple rings with LA, that validates the "Mavs messed up badly" narrative. The "bad trade" examples being offered - Herschel Walker trade, and Babe Ruth trade -- resonate because one side in the trade ended up being a MAJOR winner of multiple titles while the other was left in the dust.

But if Luka doesn't win any titles after all, then the narrative might shift considerably, even if Luka continues to bring entertainment value. And it all would look the exact opposite from what we think now, if the Mavs are the ones who somehow end up winning titles instead of Luka.

IOW it's not just what happens to Luka re titles in the next 3-4 years, but also what happens to the Mavs, that will shape the 

I totally agree with this premise. I’m not sure which way this is going to go in the next few years. I have not given up watching my Mavs and our guys all the way to player number 17 are making the games worthwhile just by playing so hard. Some are taking advantage of their opportunities. 

Our losses which are certainly huge have hurt me too. It seems the karma cost of last year’s great playoff run followed by sickness and injury was unbelievable high. But we still have many talented and seemingly motivated players and I don’t rule out future success for us. I’m watching the Lakers the most I ever have in 55 years or more because they are interesting. I do root for Luka but not the Lakers. I could never do that. 
Maybe I’m just reasonably good at not losing hope. 
I do secretly hope that Karma gives us a great draft pick or a great longer term trade pickup. I’m kind of for the trade because we have all learned lottery luck is not allowed for us.