Mavericks' next perfect starting lineup move is staring Jason Kidd in the face

It wasn't too long ago that Dallas Mavericks fans were asking for a change at the point guard position in Jason Kidd's starting lineup. Cooper Flagg began the season as the leading facilitator, but it was soon revealed that the team needed a clear guard who could run the offense. Media and former NBA veterans even took note of the situation as Dallas was turning into a dumpster fire with no on-ball creation. They believed D'Angelo Russell needed to be the starting point guard.

Former players like Lou Williams and Chandler Parsons, along with reporter Michelle Beadle, joined a podcast to outline how Russell had all the intangibles to lead the Mavs' offense without Kyrie Irving. However, Dallas' most recent game may prove otherwise. The team snapped their four-game losing streak on Saturday when they defeated the Washington Wizards 111-105. It was a much-needed win that also shed some light on their point guard position.

Russell got the starting nod for the third game in a row. Yet, his time in the starting lineup could be cut short. His recent struggles are paving the way for another guard. Brandon Williams' success proves he deserves to be the leading man to take Russell's spot in the starting five. His high level of play and ability to score buckets off the bounce make him the perfect candidate to start over Russell.

Brandon Williams' high production should give him the starting nod

One of the biggest issues heading into the offseason was the Mavs' failed attempt to trade for another guard. Dallas believed they solved their guard issues in free agency when they brought in Russell and re-signed Dante Exum. However, the solution has proven to be flawed. Exum has yet to see the floor, and Russell's struggles have hurt the team.

For example, Russell struggled heavily against the Wizards on Saturday. He scored six points, had one assist, and shot 30 percent from the field, while missing all six of his 3-point attempts. Williams, on the other hand, scored 14 points, dished out six assists, and had five steals. Not to mention, Williams' plus-minus (+24) was also years ahead of Russell's (-18).

Plus, Saturday's game was the third game in a row that Williams scored double-digit points. In contrast, Russell has had just four games in which he has scored 10 or more points.

The main issue is that Russell is struggling to convert his 3-point attempts. Remember, it was not too long ago that he was one of the top 3-point guards in the league. This has changed this season, as he is shooting a career low 27.5 percent from downtown. Last month, Russell made 18.2 percent of his attempted 3-pointers, as his offensive production took a hit.

Williams, meanwhile, isn't any better. He is shooting 16.7 percent from downtown. Yet, he can impact the game in many ways beyond shooting. Williams is a savvy guard who can attack the basket at a high level and is unafraid to score buckets the hard way. Plus, he can move the offense at an elite level.

Basically, Russell's shot selection is hurting the team, while Williams' production should be enough reason to give him a shot at the starting lineup. His production from Saturday could help change Kidd's mind. Williams has proven he can shine with the starters and that his game is not one-dimensional.

Why not give Williams the nod over Russell? His ability to create opportunities for his teammates could help move the offense, as might be the missing piece Dallas was looking for. So, a change is imminent, and the solution is right in front of Kidd.