In 1989, Dawson was struck by lightning, during a golf outing, and over the next few years, his vision became progressively worse. Unable to continue his coaching duties, Dawson moved to the Rockets' front office, becoming general manager in 1996. Dawson's career with The Rockets lasted 27 years. Among his most notable accomplishments as the general manager of the Rockets, were his selection of Yao Ming in the 2002 NBA Draft, and his seven-player trade to acquire NBA scoring champ Tracy McGrady, in 2004.