1 Thing Dallas Mavericks coach Jason Kidd must avoid to keep his job

The Dallas Mavericks are spiraling down the Western Conference standings due to losing five out of their last six games. After a hopeful seven-game win streak, which gave fans and spectators across the league hope that the Mavericks had arrived, due to recent play, doubt has crept back into the minds of fans and media.

The blame for this poor stretch of basketball goes all around. Still, when the team consistently looks unprepared and continues to lack defensive effort nightly, responsibility will and should land on the coach.

During the trade deadline, the Mavericks felt like one of the winners. Finally, upgrading personnel and surrounding their ball handlers with players who fit their style. The Mavericks can size up against anyone in the league with the additions of Daniel Gafford and P.J. Washington.

1 Thing Dallas Mavericks coach Jason Kidd must avoid to keep his job

Unfortunately, even after an upgrade to the Mavericks' depth, the team still has the worst defense rating in the entire league since the All-Star break.

Despite the above-average offensive rating since the All-Star break, the Mavericks can't stop anyone. The Mavericks currently sit in the eighth spot, clinging to a play-in spot, but there's a possibility that the Mavs play themselves out of a play-in spot.

This situation is very similar to the team's situation last year. If the team fails to make the postseason and or the Play-In Tournament once again, there could be changes coming. Specifically, coaching changes. There is a belief among some of the media and fans that Jason Kidd's seat as the Mavericks' head coach is heating up.

""Defensively is where it starts, and that's coaching, that's coaching. Can you squeeze more out of this team?"

- Tim Legler

Jason Kidd has pointed fingers, and thrown his players under the bus at times during his tenure in Dallas. It has never been more clear, that his job could be in jeopardy, but with 20 games remaining, there's still hope that things can get turned around.

There's no denying the talent and potential this roster has established. Bringing the guys together and becoming a more cohesive unit is on the coaching staff. The Dallas Mavericks' "hot seat" is warming up, and if the Mavericks fumble another postseason spot, it seems that change could be inevitable. Stay tuned for more on Jason Kidd and the Dallas Mavericks.