DALLAS — The Dallas Mavericks could sign Jason Kidd to a new contract. This development helped the team achieve a 50-win season, win a first-round playoff series against the Los Angeles Clippers, and advance to the Western Conference Finals in 2022, his first season as head coach in Dallas. It happened while I was there.
As NBA insider Marc Stein recently pointed out, Kidd's presence has been a key component to the team's success, allowing Luka Doncic and Kyrie Irving to form one of the strongest partnerships in the league. Stein called the prospect of an extension “likely” in a recent report.
“The Mavericks' success this season is a testament to Kidd's motivation and ability to strategize,” said a team official, speaking on condition of anonymity. “He is instrumental in developing our young players and getting the most out of our veteran leaders. We are excited to have him at the helm for many years to come.”
May 1, 2024. Los Angeles, California, USA.Dallas Mavericks manager Jason Kidd attended a press conference.
Kirby Lee-USA TODAY Sports
Kidd has developed close relationships with superstar players Doncic and Irving, which has been a key factor in the team's success. Having that kind of connection with top players tends to take coaches far because it allows for a level of trust and understanding that is essential to achieving greatness.
Irving praised Kidd before the 2023-24 season, saying, “Life after basketball is important, but we want to enjoy what we do here every day, and (Kidd) brings a natural ease. The energy is easygoing. He's going to hold you accountable, and he's brutally honest, so I'm sure he'll have that loyalty.”
Kidd's ability to connect with players, not just superstars, and get the most out of his team is a hallmark of his coaching style. Given his Hall of Fame reputation from his playing days, he naturally commands respect from players looking to learn and improve their games, and his 2011 championship with the Mavericks also earned him the respect he deserved. That's why players embrace his insight.
The Mavericks will face the Oklahoma City Thunder in the Western Conference semifinals, with Game 1 taking place Tuesday at Paycom Center. If they win the series, Kidd will lead his team to their second trip to the Western Conference Finals.
