Dallas Mavericks: When will Michael Kidd-Gilchrist get extended run?

Dallas Mavericks forward Michael Kidd-Gilchrist has played two games with his new team, but when will he get extended minutes?

The Dallas Mavericks brought in Michael Kidd-Gilchrist after he was bought out by the Charlotte Hornets. The 26-year-old played a minimal role this season in Charlotte. He only saw action in 12 games and averaged just 13.3 minutes per.

It caused Mavericks coach Rick Carlisle to leave him inactive in his first game with Dallas as he worked on his conditioning. That was the last one before the All-Star break. MKG played in both ends of the back-to-back on Feb. 21 and 22. He saw just under five minutes against the Hawks and nearly four versus the Magic.

Is that Kidd-Gilchrist’s role? Or will he play more after ramping up his conditioning? Let us take a closer look.

Looking back

Last season, MKG averaged 18.4 minutes per game. He was used as a bench combo forward that allows his team to switch on defense. Kidd-Gilchrist struggles with his jumper and is not a massive scorer. He is a role player that thrives on the defensive end.

During the 2017-2018 season, he played 25.0 minutes per game. Through his first six seasons, MKG averaged 26.7 a night.

What to expect

Kidd-Gilchrist is not going to play a massive role in Dallas. He will be used as a power forward and a small ball center. The Mavs are going to want to keep the minutes of Kristaps Porzingis, Maxi Kleber, and Dorian Finney-Smith up, though.

MKG could see five minutes on some nights and closer to 20 on others. That playing time will depend on the matchup and who else is healthy for Dallas. Kidd-Gilchrist may also be a did not play by coach’s decision in certain games.

That does not mean he will not play an important role down the stretch. It will be exciting to watch Michael Kidd-Gilchrist grow and improve in the Dallas Mavericks system. Keep an eye on his play.