Mavericks fire Jason Kidd after two straight playoff misses and .500 record
The Dallas Mavericks have parted ways with head coach Jason Kidd after five seasons at the helm. Team president Masai Ujiri called the move a difficult but necessary step to bring a fresh start to the franchise. Kidd’s departure comes after two consecutive seasons without playoff appearances. Despite leading the Mavericks to the NBA Finals in 2024 alongside Luka Doncic, the team struggled in the following years. His overall regular-season record stood at an even .500 (205-205).
Ujiri made clear that the decision was not linked to the recent trade of Doncic to the Los Angeles Lakers. That deal, which brought Anthony Davis to Dallas, took place during the 2024-25 season. Instead, Ujiri emphasised a new direction centred on Cooper Flagg, the 2022-23 Rookie of the Year.
Alongside Kidd’s exit, Ujiri announced changes in the front office. Matt Riccardi is leaving the organisation, while Mike Schmitz has been hired as the new general manager. Additionally, former Mavericks player Michael Finley is under consideration for a role within the team. The Mavericks now shift focus to rebuilding around Flagg and the newly acquired Davis. Ujiri’s restructuring of both coaching and management signals a clear break from the past. The franchise aims to regain competitiveness after missing the playoffs in back-to-back seasons.
