The Dallas Mavericks recently decided to move on from Anthony Davis, choosing instead to focus on developing rookie forward Cooper Flagg. Flagg’s rapid progress influenced the team’s decision to build around the young talent. Davis, who only appeared in 29 games during a brief and injury-affected stay, was traded to the Washington Wizards in a three-way deal involving the Charlotte Hornets.
In exchange, Dallas acquired Khris Middleton, Marvin Bagley III, AJ Johnson, and several draft picks to strengthen the roster and prepare for future campaigns.
Khris Middleton Reunites with Jason Kidd
Khris Middleton’s arrival at Dallas brought him back under the guidance of coach Jason Kidd, who previously coached Middleton during his tenure with the Milwaukee Bucks from 2014 to 2018. The two share a longstanding connection, having developed a mutual understanding while Kidd was at the Bucks helm.
Kidd’s Playful Yet Respectful Comments on Coaching Middleton Again
When asked about coaching Middleton once more, Kidd responded with humor, jokingly calling the experience “terrible.” However, he quickly shifted to a more serious tone, highlighting Middleton’s professionalism and leadership skills as a veteran player. Kidd emphasized Middleton’s value beyond just his on-court contributions, focusing on his influence in mentoring younger teammates.
“Playing through him, he’s a vet. I’ve been with him early in his journey. He’s a champion, he’s a pro, comes to work, does his job, and understands that he can help us with voice, not just his play,”
said Kidd, who had a 139-152 record coaching the Bucks.
“I’ve been talking to him a lot about how he can help Coop. He feels like he can’t help Coop. Coop’s already passed him. He has a good sense of humor (about it). But just looking at his knowledge and understanding of the game, it’s been great working with Khris.”
Middleton’s Early Impact on the Mavericks
While still adapting to his new role, Middleton showcased his scoring ability by posting 25 points in Dallas’s recent victory over the Indiana Pacers, a win that ended a difficult 10-game losing streak for the Mavericks. His familiarity with Kidd is expected to assist him in navigating this transition and contributing significantly as the season progresses.
Implications for the Mavericks’ Season
With Cooper Flagg quickly becoming a central figure and Khris Middleton bringing veteran leadership, the Mavericks appear to be balancing youthful potential with seasoned experience. Jason Kidd’s leadership and mentorship could play a vital role in accelerating Flagg’s development while maximizing Middleton’s impact. This Mavericks reunion with Middleton under Kidd’s coaching might be pivotal in shaping the team’s prospects moving forward.
Jason Kidd on working with Khris Middleton again:
“Terrible. Playing through him, he’s a vet. I’ve been with him early in his journey…He’s a champion, he’s a pro…I’ve been talking to him a lot about he can help Coop. He feels like he can’t help Coop, Coop’s already passed… pic.twitter.com/iizozXoYmj
— Noah Weber (@noahweber00) February 27, 2026
