Mavs' Rookie Experiment Backfires as Kidd's Son Criticizes Lineup Choices

As of November 12th, 2025, the Dallas Mavericks have struggled to a 3-8 record in the Western Conference, leading to the dismissal of general manager Nico Harrison earlier this week. One of the major talking points surrounding the team's poor start has been head coach Jason Kidd's decision to start rookie Cooper Flagg at the point guard position, even in the absence of Kyrie Irving.

Kidd's own son, TJ Kidd, has publicly questioned this move, expressing confusion over why Flagg, who is not a natural point guard, is being asked to run the offense. TJ Kidd acknowledged Flagg's talent and potential, but stated that he does not understand the coaching staff's decision-making in this regard.

Adding to the Mavericks' woes is the continued fallout from their decision to trade Luka Doncic to the Los Angeles Lakers last year. Doncic has thrived in Los Angeles, while the Mavs have struggled to find wins without their former star. The team's poor start has ultimately led to Nico Harrison's dismissal, though NBA insider Shams Charania has revealed that Kidd was fully aligned with Harrison and the Dallas ownership on the Doncic trade.

As the spotlight now shifts to Jason Kidd and his coaching decisions, the Mavericks will need to find a way to turn their season around and regain the form that made them a contender in the Western Conference.