Mavericks head coach Jason Kidd addresses Klay Thompson’s reduced minutes

After a stretch of poor performances, Jason Kidd decided to give more prominence to the team’s younger players. As a result, the Dallas Mavericks managed to snap their losing streak with a win over the Toronto Raptors. Anthony Davis has not been affected by the changes. However, Klay Thompson has seen a reduction in his minutes. Jason Kidd spoke about the decision and gave more insight into the reasons behind Thompson’s decreased playing time.

“We’re deep. We got a lot of things that we’re trying to cram in here in 48 minutes with the different lineup combinations. Seeing who can do what. Also that means guys aren’t gonna play 24 or 26 minutes that he has been. When you look at what (Max) Christie was doing, he was going, so that gives the opportunity to Christie to have more minutes where you don’t have to wear Klay out here before Wednesday,” affirmed Jason Kidd.

Since joining the Mavericks, Klay Thompson has had to adapt to a new role. He is no longer the primary scorer. However, he remains a key contributor during important stretches. He is averaging 14 points, 3.4 rebounds, and 2 assists per game his least productive NBA season since his rookie year.

When injuries hit earlier in the season, Kidd turned to the bench more often. He trusted his younger players in high-pressure situations. That decision helped them gain confidence and rhythm. At the same time, he avoided overusing the veterans. Still, Thompson’s leadership and playoff experience remain crucial. As the play-in tournament nears, Kidd could turn that veteran depth into a major advantage.

lay Thompson #31 of the Dallas Mavericks shoots the ball during the first half of a basketball game against the Charlotte Hornets

Dereck Lively II is getting a bigger role on the Mavericks: Jason Kidd explains his decision

Dereck Lively II is starting to turn heads in Dallas. The young center has seen his role grow steadily with the Mavericks. He continues to earn more trust from the coaching staff as the season progresses. As a result, his presence on the court has become more noticeable in recent games. Head coach Jason Kidd recently opened up about the reasons behind Lively’s increased playing time.

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“Our style of basketball has changed, just understanding he’s had to pivot… He’s done a great job of studying and working with the coaches to understand the double-teams and where to be. To see that tonight, to get the double-double, his opportunities, come off with the offensive rebounds and then our pace. If we can play at this pace that definitely helps him,” affirmed Kidd.

At just 20 years old, Dereck Lively II already shows a strong understanding of Jason Kidd’s system. He knows where to be on the court and how to contribute. His role could grow even more as the Mavericks prepare for the postseason. In addition, his defense stands out as the area where he has improved the most. That growth helps bring balance to the entire team. If he keeps developing at this pace, he could become a key piece in Dallas’ long-term plans.