Jason Kidd and Luka Doncic controversy heats up again after explosive report on Mavericks Lakers trade support

The conversation around Luka Doncic leaving the Dallas Mavericks is still not slowing down. Now, new comments from ESPN insider Shams Charania have added another layer to the story. Speaking on The Pat McAfee Show, Charania said former Mavericks head coach Jason Kidd had “some level of support” for the blockbuster trade that sent Dončić to the Los Angeles Lakers in February 2025.

That update came only days after Kidd and the Mavericks officially parted ways following five seasons together. Kidd had earlier denied being “part of the process” after former Mavericks owner Mark Cuban suggested on a podcast that he was involved in the decision. While there is no proof Kidd pushed for the trade himself, the latest report suggests there was at least some agreement inside the organization when the move happened.

Jason Kidd, Luka Doncic, and the Dallas Mavericks trade fallout continues to grow

The Mavericks are now entering a completely new phase. New team president Masai Ujiri is already reshaping the franchise, and according to Shams Charania, team governor Patrick Dumont has given him “full authority” to lead the direction of the organization. That includes finding a new head coach after Kidd’s departure.

At first, the Dončić trade shocked fans across the NBA. Many believed Dallas gave away its biggest star too early. The move quickly became one of the most talked-about stories in basketball. Still, the Mavericks got a huge boost after winning the No. 1 overall pick in the 2025 NBA Draft, giving them the chance to select Cooper Flagg.

Even with that lucky break, questions remain about how Dallas will rebuild around a young roster. Kidd’s exit also shows the franchise wants a fresh start after months of criticism and pressure surrounding the trade.

Jason Kidd coaching stats

Benefits for Jason Kidd

ul1
• li2Still owed around $40 million on his contract
• li2Has experience coaching multiple NBA teams
• li2Reached deep playoff runs with Dallas
• li2Could quickly become a coaching option for another franchise

Odds against Jason Kidd

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• li2Luka Dončić trade backlash still follows the Mavericks
• li2Questions remain about how involved he was in the decision
• li2Career coaching record is below .500
• li2Pressure will remain high wherever he coaches next