Dallas Mavericks excited about what a healthy Kristaps Porzingis offers

The Dallas Mavericks traded for Kristaps Porzingis back in 2019. He was recovering from ACL surgery, but just a year removed from his first All-Star appearance. The Mavs viewed him as the second star the team needed to take the next step.

Dallas has made the playoffs two straight years, but they have been knocked out in the first round by the LA Clippers. KP suffered a meniscus injury in the bubble and missed the team’s final three games. This season, Porzingis disappointed in the playoffs. He averaged just 13.1 points, 5.4 rebounds, and 0.7 blocks in the seven games versus the Clippers. The Mavericks used him primarily as a floor spacer on offense, and the Unicorn did not get a chance to spread his wings.

Many Mavs supporters thought the team would trade Porzingis this offseason, but new head coach Jason Kidd and owner Mark Cuban are excited about what KP can offer. Here is a look at their quotes from the introductory news conference for Kidd and Nico Harrison on July 15.

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Dallas Mavericks leadership excited about Kristaps Porzingis moving forward

Kidd did not hide his excitement about getting to work with Porzingis.

Kidd sounds like he expects to coach Porzingis — and is excited about it. pic.twitter.com/5j2HhF5V43
— Brad Townsend (@townbrad) July 15, 2021

He followed up later with more on how fans could see a different version of the Unicorn next season before owner Mark Cuban added his thoughts.

Mark Cuban interjects on KP: “I think he’s been unfairly maligned. During the playoffs, he did exactly what he was asked to do. Exactly.”

Said he’s even had to correct his son’s assertions about KP’s low playoff production.
— Callie Caplan (@CallieCaplan) July 15, 2021

Fans can watch the entire introductory press conference for Jason Kidd and Nico Harrison here.

The Mavericks leadership is excited about what a healthy Kristaps Porzingis can bring to the team. They must find ways to maximize his production. Dallas will struggle to win the playoffs with KP being a role player. They need him scoring, rebounding, and protecting the rim. The Clippers were the worst matchup for Porzingis. Fans are hoping to see the best version yet during the 2021-2022 season.

The Dallas Mavericks have plenty of important decisions to make this offseason, but their leadership is excited about the current roster. They believe the team will take a step forward under the new coaching staff. The Mavs will be looking to upgrade the roster this summer to jump into title contention. Stay tuned for all the latest.

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