The Dallas Mavericks find themselves in an enviable position heading into the season—a surplus of talented guards. While depth is typically a blessing, it presents a unique challenge for head coach Jason Kidd, who must decide which players will earn significant minutes and which will be left on the sidelines.
When star players like Luka Dončić and Kyrie Irving need a rest, the Mavs have three capable guards waiting in the wings: Spencer Dinwiddie, Dante Exum, and Jaden Hardy. All three have had impactful moments in their careers with Dallas, but only two will likely see regular rotation minutes. One, unfortunately, will find themselves outside the primary rotation.
Spencer Dinwiddie brings experience and consistency, having been a crucial contributor in the 2022 NBA Playoffs and starting 60 games in the regular season. His performance and decision to sign with Dallas over the Lakers suggest he’s a strong candidate for regular playing time. It would be surprising if Dinwiddie is the odd man out.
That leaves Jaden Hardy and Dante Exum in a direct competition for minutes. Exum is an excellent defender and a reliable shooter, making him a valuable asset in specific situations. Hardy, on the other hand, is a younger player with a higher ceiling, offering superior scoring ability and more dynamic playmaking. In the playoffs last season, Hardy shone, displaying notable growth in his decision-making, while Exum struggled with confidence during crucial moments.
Both Exum and Hardy are entering contract years, raising the stakes even higher. For Exum, this season might determine whether he stays in the NBA, while Hardy is pushing to secure his first major contract. With both players eager to prove themselves, Jason Kidd may have a difficult decision, especially as the trade deadline approaches, potentially providing a way to move one of them to a team where they can thrive.
The Mavs’ crowded backcourt rotation is a good problem to have, but it still means tough choices ahead. Kidd must weigh the immediate reliability of veterans against the promise of young talent like Hardy, making this a pivotal season for all involved. As the season unfolds, fans will eagerly await to see how this battle for minutes plays out.
Be the first to comment