The Dallas Mavericks got off to a good start in the 2023-24 season, posting a 9-3 record and competing for the top seed in the Western Conference. However, they have gradually fallen down the rankings and are currently in 8th place in the West Region.
Injuries have certainly hit the team hard, but it looks like the front office will need to address some holes on the roster before the trade deadline to improve his chances of becoming a true contender. The past few months have revealed the Mavs' biggest needs, including a starter at forward and a reliable backup at the backcourt and center positions.
Interestingly, Dallas has several former players who could provide reinforcements to the team if they are still playing.
Let's start with someone familiar with the current Mavs. Head coach Jason Kidd played with the franchise twice, but neither match matched his prime.
A graduate of the University of California, Berkeley, he began his NBA career when he was selected by Dallas with the second overall pick in the 1994 draft. He immediately made an impact on the team, showing off his all-around play with four triple-doubles in his rookie season.
After stints with the Phoenix Suns and New Jersey Nets, Kidd returned to the Mavs in his mid-30s. Even as he neared retirement, he provided stability at the point guard position and helped the team reach the playoffs each season. A nine-time All-Defensive team selection, he was also named one of the 15 greatest defenders of all time, even though he wasn't at his best during his time in Dallas.
The 10-time All-Star was the organization's starting point guard in its only championship run, but if he were to play for the Mavs today, he would serve as a backup to Luka Doncic and Kyrie Irving. He is well aware that reaching the Promised Land requires sacrifice, so perhaps he will have no qualms about the role.
