Kidd names unexpected veteran the Mavericks' MVP over Doncic and Irving

The Dallas Mavericks are just one win away from eliminating the Minnesota Timberwolves, and they have four chances to book their first Finals trip since 2011. The organization and its fans likely want the team to complete the sweep on Tuesday so they can celebrate at American Airlines Center.

While some folks have credited Luka Doncic and Kyrie Irving for turning the squad into a true championship contender, the team has actually proven to be a great mixture of stars, role players, and locker room leaders. Coach Jason Kidd also deserves recognition for maximizing the roster and implementing a system that makes good use of each players' strengths.

It remains to be seen in which contest Dallas will eliminate the Wolves. That evening will also see the NBA present the Magic Johnson Trophy for the Western Conference Finals MVP.

Jason Kidd names Markieff Morris the Mavericks' MVP over Luka Doncic and Kyrie Irving

Before Game 4, Kidd effused high praises on Markieff Morris for his valuable contribution to the franchise, which is primarily seen behind the scenes. The veteran has emerged as an unexpected leader for the Mavs, filling in a void in that department.

Because of what Morris has done, Kidd named him the team's MVP over Doncic and Irving at practice on Monday when he was asked what Morris means to the team.

It's highly likely that the star duo won't have any qualms about the assertion, especially since the forward has been one of the most vocal inside the locker room. He was also among those who delivered a fiery message to the team before the first round of the playoffs, which seems to have helped Dallas make a strong push toward winning the title.

Another interesting of note is that Morris is just one of two Mavs players who have already collected a ring, with Irving being the other. He was a member of the Los Angeles Lakers squad that clinched the championship in the NBA Bubble in 2020. Kidd was also a part of that group, serving as an assistant coach under Frank Vogel.

Morris has yet to appear in the 2024 Playoffs after barely breaking a sweat in the regular season with just 26 appearances. However, his presence has clearly been felt within the Mavs organization. From defending Doncic from a ridiculous rumor to helping injured teammates and taking charge of huddles and pep talks, Keef's worth goes beyond stats. And Kidd is surely appreciative of his impact on the team.

Stay tuned to read more about Markieff Morris, Jason Kidd, and the Dallas Mavericks, as they try to secure a second title for the franchise.