Jason Kidd’s Future with the Mavericks
Amid rumors linking him to the vacant head coaching position with the New York Knicks, Jason Kidd’s position with the Dallas Mavericks has been reaffirmed. Mavericks general manager Nico Harrison made it clear on Wednesday following the NBA Draft, where the team selected standout Cooper Flagg as the first overall pick, that Kidd will return as head coach for the next season.
Addressing the Rumors
During an interview, Harrison humorously addressed the speculation, quipping,
“Are there rumors? I thought I shut those down.”
Kidd’s Tenure and Future Prospects
Kidd, who has been at the helm for the Mavericks for four seasons, saw fleeting interest from the Knicks after they parted ways with coach Tom Thibodeau; however, the Mavericks swiftly blocked any attempt for the Knicks to interview Kidd. Despite media discussions around his potential move, the franchise had always anticipated that Kidd would stay on board.
It is also suggested that Kidd could leverage the Knicks’ interest into securing a new contract with the Mavericks, although the details of such an agreement have not yet been disclosed.
Mavericks’ Performance Under Kidd
Under Kidd’s leadership, the Mavericks boast a record of 179 wins against 149 losses, notably guiding the team to the NBA Finals in 2024 alongside star player Luka Dončić.
Welcoming Cooper Flagg
With Kidd’s position solidified, the Mavericks can now focus on the future as they usher in the Flagg era. Flagg, who was named the consensus National Player of the Year after averaging 19.2 points and 7.5 rebounds during his season at Duke—where he led the team to the Final Four—will have his introductory press conference alongside Kidd and Harrison on Friday.
Flagg expressed his commitment, stating,
“I know there’s probably going to be some high expectations, but I’m going to try to impact the game as much as I can. I’m prepared to embrace whatever role I’m assigned and give it my all.”
