The Dallas Mavericks are in a much better position than they were on February 3, when they lost to the Milwaukee Bucks and fell to 26-23 on the season. Since then, the Mavs are 17-6 and have won nine of their past 10 games heading into Friday night's rematch with the Sacramento Kings.
This late-season jump from Dallas not only boosts Luka Doncic's MVP chances, but also reports that Mavs head coach Jason Kidd is “hoping” for a contract extension during the offseason. ing.
“Doncic, once again in the midst of an MVP race, is leading a team that has been dominant of late,” wrote The Athletic's Sam Amick. “Irving gives Doncic the balance he needs on offense, he plays beautiful basketball, and Kidd expects to get a contract extension this summer, league officials say. (Contracted until next season)
March 9, 2024. Detroit, Michigan, USA.Dallas Mavericks head coach Jason Kidd speaks with guard Luka
Rick Osentoski-USA TODAY Sports
Kidd has a habit of annoying the Mavs fan base at times, but there's no doubting his ability to coach a defense when there are players on the roster who can play defense. When the Mavs had the best versions of Dorian Finney-Smith and Reggie Bullock in the 2022 playoffs, they had a solid run before a lack of frontcourt depth doomed them against the eventual champions. He was able to play a strong defense and advanced to the Western Conference Finals. Golden State Warriors.
After a disappointing 2022-23 season in which the Mavs missed the playoffs, Dallas is finally in position to make another strong run in the playoffs while making the most of Kidd's strengths. From the offseason additions of Derek Lively II, Dante Exum, and Derrick Jones Jr. to the trade acquisitions of Daniel Gafford and P.J. Washington, the makeup of the Mavs' roster has changed over the down years that followed. There is a difference between day and night. Advance to the West final.
“This team is great,” Gafford said on the latest episode of the TV show. top shelf with Devin Harris. “We have great depth. [and] There is certainly a lot of fire burning in our hearts night and night. There is no doubt that we will make it to the finals because of the simple fact that we felt comfortable right away when we first got here. It's like I'm peanut butter and the jelly is already on the bread.we just got together [easily]. Chemistry is getting there. Their chemistry is getting better with each match. I believe it. ”
Over the past 10 games, the Mavs are fifth in offense, second in defense and fourth in net rating. That's the mark of a true title contender, and if the Mavs can show that potential in the postseason, Kidd will have an easier time getting his contract extension over the summer.
