The Dallas Mavericks have plummeted down the Western Conference standings after losing five of their last six games. After a hopeful seven-game winning streak gave fans and spectators around the league hope for the Mavericks' arrival, recent play has once again crept doubt into the minds of fans and media.
The blame for this poor basketball game is everywhere. Still, if a team consistently looks unprepared and continues to lack defensive effort on a nightly basis, the blame will and should fall on the coach.
During the trade deadline, the Mavericks felt like they were among the winners. Finally, upgrade your personnel and surround your ball handlers with players who fit your style. With the additions of Daniel Gafford and P.J. Washington, the Mavericks can play against anyone in the league.
Unfortunately, even after the Mavericks' depth has been strengthened, the team's defense is still the worst in the entire league since the All-Star break.
Worst defensive rating since NBA All-Star break:
30. Dallas Mavericks: 126.0
29. Washington Wizards: 122.5
28. Los Angeles Lakers: 119.7
27. Sacramento Kings: 119.0
26. Philadelphia 76ers: 117.7— Grant Afseth (@GrantAfseth) March 6, 2024
Despite having an above-average offensive rating since the All-Star break, the Mavericks have been unstoppable. The Mavericks currently sit in eighth place and are locked in a play-in spot, but the Mavs could play outside of the play-in spot.
This situation is very similar to last year's team situation. That could change if the team fails to advance to the postseason or play-in tournament again. Specifically, coaching will change. Some media outlets and fans believe that Jason Kidd's position as head coach of the Mavericks is heating up.
Tim Legler's story of the day @ALLCITY_NBA Podcast.
“Personally, I think Jason Kidd is in trouble.”
Full video: https://t.co/J0ArQzMvyy pic.twitter.com/N3DIy3WQul
— Mavs Film Room🐴🎥 (@MavsFilmRoom) March 7, 2024
“Defense starts, that's coaching, that's coaching. Can we get more out of this team?”
– Tim Legler
Jason Kidd sometimes held his finger up and threw players under the bus during his tenure in Dallas. It's clearer than ever that his job could be in jeopardy, but he has 20 games left so there's still a chance things could turn around.
There's no denying the talent and potential this roster has established. It is the coaching staff's role to bring the players together and become a more cohesive unit. The Dallas Mavericks' “hot seat” is warming up, and change seems inevitable if the Mavericks fail to earn another postseason berth. Stay tuned for more information on Jason Kidd and the Dallas Mavericks.
