the Mavs have been able to rely on Dončić’s offensive brilliance to win games, their lack of defensive prowess has hindered their chances of becoming a true championship contender.
The blame for the Mavs’ struggles falls on the shoulders of both head coach Jason Kidd and general manager Nico Harrison. Kidd’s coaching decisions, such as his questionable rotations and lack of urgency, have been a constant source of frustration for fans. The offense often relies too heavily on isolation plays or three-pointers, which has led to a lack of efficiency. Kidd’s coaching flaws were evident in his previous coaching stops with the Milwaukee Bucks and Brooklyn Nets, where he was ultimately fired due to similar issues.
Harrison, on the other hand, has failed to build a roster around Dončić that can compete at a championship level. Despite having multiple first-round picks and promising players like Jalen Brunson and Kristaps Porzingis at his disposal, Harrison has failed to make any significant moves to improve the team. His trades have resulted in the loss of valuable assets and have not yielded any notable returns. The signings of washed players like Seth Curry and low-floor/defensive upgrades Dante Exum and Derrick Jones Jr. have not made a significant impact on the team’s success.
Furthermore, Harrison’s inability to address the team’s defensive weaknesses has been a major downfall. The departures of defensive stalwarts Reggie Bullock and Dorian Finney-Smith have left the team vulnerable on that end of the court. The Mavs currently rank 22nd in defensive rating and struggle to defend the paint and mid-range areas.
While Dončić’s individual brilliance has carried the team to some wins, it is clear that he cannot do it all on his own. He needs a supporting cast that can alleviate some of the offensive burden and contribute on the defensive end. The failure to provide Dončić with a capable sidekick or a well-rounded roster falls squarely on the shoulders of Kidd and Harrison.
In order for the Mavericks to have a shot at winning a championship, changes need to be made. The firing of Kidd and Harrison would be a step in the right direction. The team needs a new coach who can maximize Dončić’s talents and create a more balanced offensive approach. Additionally, a general manager who can make smart trades and signings to build a competitive roster is necessary.
The Dallas Mavericks have one of the brightest young stars in the NBA in Luka Dončić, but their inability to build a team around him has been a major disappointment. It’s time for the organization to make the necessary changes to give Dončić the best chance at winning a championship.
