Dallas Mavericks: 5 biggest takeaways from 2021 media day

Biggest takeaway from Dallas Mavericks media day: 3. KP’s role is changing

No player sounded more excited during media day than Kristaps Porzingis, and there was plenty of energy to go around. The Unicorn struggled in the playoffs after he was asked to play an uncomfortable role, but those days are behind him. The 26-year-old is genuinely excited about playing for new head coach Jason Kidd and being a more featured part of the offense.

The new Mavericks head coach had this to say about KP’s role this season.

"Well, the simple way to put is I want KP to be a basketball player. There is no limitation on just shooting threes. Being able to roll, to shoot the mid-range, to put the ball on the floor, I want him to be who he is, and that is a basketball player, not just be limited to shooting threes or crashing from the corner. I want him to feel comfortable on the floor in any spot. I think he’s a weapon, and he shoots the ball too well not to be able to shoot mid-range shots."

Porzingis was beyond excited about this switch. He talked in detail about the confidence the Hall of Fame point guard is giving him and how Kidd is relying on communication to get the best out of KP.

Fans should expect to see Porzingis playing in the post more this season. He will also be working out of the mid-range and taking plenty of jumpers from that area. The Dallas Mavericks want to get him more involved and help him return to his All-Star form. They need him at that level if they are going to be serious title contenders. Hopefully, the role change and added confidence play key factors in the return of the Unicorn.