Will Jason Kidd be fired? Mavericks coach’s future in question after Masai Ujiri hire

Earlier this week, the Dallas Mavericks hired Masai Ujiri as team president. Since then, the status of head coach Jason Kidd’s job has been in question.

Why Jason Kidd’s job is suddenly in focus

It’s common across the NBA for a new team president or lead executive to want their own head coach. Plus there were reports that Kidd himself was interested in taking on the role that was given to Ujiri, which complicates the matter even further.

Even though Kidd is under contract and has received extensions in recent years, a leadership change at the top of the organization often resets long-term plans. The Mavericks are entering a new era after major roster moves, including the departure of Luka Doncic, and expectations are shifting.

Does Ujiri view Kidd as part of the future? So far, he has not given a definitive answer, saying he wants to evaluate everything before making decisions and will meet with him to talk next week.

History suggests Kidd could stay

If history is any indication, Kidd may have a strong chance to return. During his previous stops, Ujiri has shown a tendency to keep incumbent coaches rather than immediately replacing them, something he mentioned himself when reporters probed him about Kidd’s status for next season. He retained George Karl during his tenure with the Denver Nuggets and stuck with Dwane Casey for multiple seasons after joining the Toronto Raptors. That track record suggests Ujiri values continuity, at least initially, especially when evaluating a roster and organizational structure.

In Dallas, there is also internal support for Kidd. Ownership has leaned on him heavily in recent seasons, and he maintains a strong relationship with key players, including rising centerpiece Cooper Flagg.

What could put Kidd at risk?

If Ujiri ultimately believes the Mavericks need a fresh voice to truly “move forward”, a coaching change could follow. New executives often want alignment across all levels, and that sometimes means bringing in their own choice on the bench.

The Mavs are currently trying to reset after a turbulent stretch, and patience may be limited if results don’t come quickly.Even if Kidd begins next season as head coach, his long-term future could depend on early performance and how well he fits into Ujiri’s vision.

Parting ways with Kidd wouldn’t be a simple move, though. Beyond his contract status, Kidd is a franchise figure with deep ties to the organization, including his role on Dallas’ championship team. He also helped guide the Mavericks to a Finals appearance during his current tenure, giving him credibility within the building.

There’s also the timing. With several coaching vacancies already around the league, the Mavericks would need a clear upgrade in mind before making a change.

The most likely outcome...for now

At this stage, the safest expectation is that Kidd returns for at least one more season. Ujiri’s history, combined with Kidd’s standing within the organization, points toward continuity in the short term. But that doesn’t mean the situation is settled.

Instead, the upcoming offseason, and potentially early next season, could serve as an extended evaluation period.

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