Dallas Mavericks head coach Jason Kidd has faced his share of criticism over the years, but his achievements with the Mavericks speak volumes. Despite the doubts, Kidd has successfully guided the team to the Western Conference Finals twice in the past three years and led them to the NBA Finals in the 2023-24 season. His efforts have been recognized with a contract extension, signaling the Mavericks’ confidence in his abilities. As the 2024-25 season approaches, fans and analysts are keen to see if Kidd can secure the NBA Coach of the Year Award.
Kidd is known for his strong relationship with players, often defending them publicly when they face criticism. This was evident when he stood up for Luka Dončić during the NBA Finals. His supportive nature seems to resonate well with the team, making him a popular figure among the players. However, some question his management of timeouts, yet Kidd’s deep understanding of the game is undeniable. The big question is whether his coaching skills will be enough to earn him the Coach of the Year honor this season.
In the previous season, Oklahoma City Thunder’s Mark Daigneault took home the Coach of the Year Award, even though Kidd’s Mavericks defeated Daigneault’s Thunder in the Western Conference Playoffs. This season, Kidd’s chances for the award could improve significantly if the Mavericks perform exceptionally well. Despite Dallas finishing fifth in the Western Conference and Kidd placing only 10th in the 2023-24 Coach of the Year voting, his overall coaching record since taking over in 2022 is impressive, with a 140-106 regular season record.
While some fans have criticized Kidd’s coaching decisions, many analysts and players recognize his contributions. Former player and analyst Jay Williams praised Kidd’s impact on the Mavericks’ offense, particularly with the addition of Klay Thompson. Williams highlighted that Kidd’s leadership could transform the Mavericks’ play, making this a critical season for Kidd’s reputation.
Kidd’s recent contract extension indicates his commitment to the Mavericks’ championship aspirations. He expressed his goal of winning a title within the next three yea myrs. If the Mavericks meet their high expectations and finish as a top seed in the Western Conference, Kidd could very well be in the running for the NBA Coach of the Year Award. With the talent at his disposal, the upcoming season could be a defining moment for Kidd’s coaching career.
