Dallas Mavericks coach Jason Kidd spoke after Thursday’s 135-123 loss to the San Antonio Spurs and discussed the team’s recent transactions and the development of young talent like Cooper Flagg.
Regarding Victor Wembanyama’s performance, Kidd said: “He was five for five from three and I think he only missed one off the floor… he was very good on both ends, and we know he is one of the best players in the world.”
Despite Wembanyama’s hot start, Kidd praised the Mavericks’ effort. “In the second half the boys fought… a lot of effort, a lot of big play for Max Christie and Naji and Cooper and Gaff,” he said, highlighting Daniel Gafford’s strong performance.
Kidd noted that adjustments were made in the second half to limit Spurs’ second-chance opportunities. “We understand that he may have made a few shots, but he also missed a few … we gave up too many offensive rebounds in the first half, and the group did a good job of correcting that.”
According to Kidd, Cooper Flagg’s chemistry with Naji Marshall stood out. “Naji did it for us: run the offense, attack, make threes, finish, get to the line. Coop put up 30 against a very good defensive team… very impressive for a rookie.”
Reflecting on Anthony Davis’ departure, Kidd said, “It was unfortunate. His health… we never got to see everyone together. AD is an incredible basketball player and a great human being. We wish him the best in DC.”
Kidd emphasized the Mavericks’ long-term plan with Flagg. “The runway is long. He’s 19 and developing his knowledge of the NBA, the scheme, the physicality… his game is very impressive, and now it’s up to us to find pieces that fit.”
He praised Flagg’s evolving playmaking. “His vision, ability to build defenses and find open guys is at a high level… he’s coachable, loves film and is all about winning. That makes him special.”
Daniel Gafford’s recent scoring surge also attracted attention. “He’s feeling better, getting more involved, setting great screens, collecting offensive rebounds and capitalizing on lobs. His energy was big for us,” Kidd said.
In Thursday’s game, Flagg and Marshall each scored 32 points, keeping Dallas close despite Wembanyama’s 29 points and De’Aaron Fox’s late three-pointers that sealed the Spurs’ victory. Harrison Barnes added 19 for San Antonio as seven Spurs reached double figures.
Dallas, now 19-32 and on a six-game losing streak, will face San Antonio again on Saturday, giving the Mavericks a chance to snap their skid and continue evaluating new roster additions from the Feb. 5 trade, including Khris Middleton and Tyus Jones.
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