Dallas Mavericks: How Michael Kidd-Gilchrist should fit into the rotation

The Dallas Mavericks signed Michael Kidd-Gilchrist on Feb. 11. Here is how the forward should fit into the team’s rotation down the stretch.

The Dallas Mavericks did not make an upgrade at the trade deadline. The front office searched for moves, but it could not find the perfect fit. The Mavs still wanted to improve their roster as they head into the stretch run. That meant searching the buyout market and free agency.

The Mavericks found their man after the Charlotte Hornets bought out Michael Kidd-Gilchrist. The veteran lacks the playoff experience they were searching for with only four games under his belt, but he is defensive-minded forward that should fill a role.

MKG officially signed with the Mavs on Feb. 11. He had his first practice with the team on Tuesday. Afterward, Coach Rick Carlisle had some high praise for the 26-year-old. Hear his comments below.

https://twitter.com/dallasmavs/status/1227361797986029571

Fans are left wondering where Kidd-Gilchrist fits into the team’s rotation. He has only played in 12 games this season. MKG was not part of the rebuilding Hornets’ nightly rotation. He averaged just 18.4 minutes per game a season ago too. Expecting him to come in and start is not likely.

That does not mean he will never start. Coach Carlisle has played the matchups all season with his starting five. Supporters know when healthy Luka Doncic, Kristaps Porzingis, Dorian Finney-Smith, and Tim Hardaway Jr. are beginning the game. That fifth spot rotates based on the opposition.

Here is a look at where Michael Kidd-Gilchrist fits in for the remainder of the season.

Next: Examining the roster