Jason Kidd, the Dallas Mavericks’ head coach, has faced some criticism in the past. Kidd’s coaching career has been up and down, but the reality remains that he has led the Mavs to success in two of his three seasons. Kidd is swiftly emerging as one of the NBA’s most undervalued head coaches.
If the Mavericks perform as expected during the 2024-25 season, Kidd may be considered for NBA Coach of the Year. Although there are huge expectations for the team, nothing is assured. The Mavericks will have to make some alterations. In reality, Kidd will have to answer several questions.
However, one of the more urgent questions revolves around Klay Thompson, who was acquired from the Golden State Warriors via a sign-and-trade this offseason. Kidd is thrilled to have Thompson on the club, but the seasoned shooting guard necessitates a distinct coaching approach.
Steve Kerr used Klay Thompson perfectly with the Golden State Warriors. Golden State’s motion offence caused Klay to consistently move off screens in search of open shots. He eventually established himself as one of the top three-point shooters of all time, with Stephen Curry.
Thompson deserves praise as well. He isn’t just the result of good instruction. Having saying that, Thompson’s play style benefits from certain offences and game plans.
So the most pressing question for Jason Kidd is whether he will be able to properly utilise Thompson alongside Luka Doncic and Kyrie Irving.
Jason Kidd prepared to deploy the new-look lineup.
Dallas Mavericks head coach Jason Kidd reacts in the fourth quarter against the Minnesota Timberwolves in game three of the 2024 NBA playoffs’ western conference finals at American Airlines Centre.
Jerome Miron/USA TODAY Sports
Thompson is anticipated to start with Doncic, Irving, PJ Washington, and Dereck Lively II. Klay will most likely play on the wing, and the NBA world has concluded this offseason that Doncic and Irving’s superior playmaking abilities will result in easy opportunities for the four-time champion.
However, there is more to the situation.
Thompson may not be the same superstar he once was, but he still an excellent long-range shooter. Defences realise this and will be ready to close in on him and make life difficult whenever he gets the ball. However, Kidd will have to adjust to coaching Thompson.
Irving and Doncic do not require a playbook. They may dribble at the top of the key and create opportunities for themselves or their teammates. Sure, the Mavericks still run plays, but the stars’ ingenuity makes things easier for the head coach.
It will be interesting to see how frequently the Mavericks run particular plays for Thompson. With the former Warriors star on the team, there will most certainly be more off-ball movement.
However, Thompson will also experience significant changes. Playing with Doncic and Irving will be an adjustment. This is another factor Kidd will take into account.
Will Kidd and the Mavericks help Klay Thompson reach his greatest potential?
Nico Harrison and the Mavericks certainly believe in Kidd. This past season, Kidd received a contract extension, and Dallas expects him to lead the way. The 2024-25 season will be critical for the Mavericks’ head coach.
Kidd should be able to assist Thompson make the most of his time with the Mavericks. Again, adjustments will undoubtedly be required as Klay joins his new team. Fans must be patient, but there are reasons to believe in Jason Kidd’s strategy.
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