Jason Kidd was introduced as the new head coach of the Dallas Mavericks on Thursday. Kidd comes over from the Los Angeles Lakers where he had been an assistant coach on Frank Vogel's staff. It's another opportunity for Kidd to get into the head coaching ranks after past stops with the Nets and Bucks.
The big question mark for the Mavericks offseason is figuring out what they need to put around superstar Luka Doncic. Doncic was phenomenal again this past year but questions have surfaced as to whether or not Kristaps Porzingis can be a No. 2 in Dallas.
Kidd was asked about the Doncic – Porzingis dynamic and he was very straightforward in his answer on Thursday.
Jason Kidd on Kristaps Porzingis: “He’s a perfect fit for Luka.”
— Tim MacMahon (@espn_macmahon) July 15, 2021
While Doncic is the superstar attraction, it was Porzingis who was brought up time and again on Thursday. The Latvian forward sputtered throughout much of the season for the Mavericks and hasn't really lived up to all the hype and the potential that was once seen. Kidd believes a different Porzingis will be seen next year.
“We’re excited about KP being healthy. I think he’s excited, ready to work, and I think you’re going to see a different KP.”
Mavericks owner Mark Cuban was present for the press conference and he thinks Porzingis has been unfairly labeled, especially during the playoffs this past year.
“I think he’s been unfairly maligned. During the playoffs, he did exactly what he was asked to do. Exactly.”
One thing seems certain and that is that the Mavericks have no plans on moving Porzingis as the offseason rolls along. Now, they'll keep their fingers crossed that the Doncic – Porzingis duo finally clicks next year.
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