Mavericks Seek Lineup Changes After Blowout Loss to Raptors

Head coach Jason Kidd hints at potential adjustments as Dallas looks to spark its struggling offense.

Apr. 12, 2026 at 5:52am

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A fractured, multi-perspective painting in the style of Pablo Picasso, breaking a basketball game down into sharp, overlapping geometric planes in navy blue, royal blue, silver, red, purple, and black.The Mavericks' struggles to find their rhythm on the court are reflected in a cubist, fragmented depiction of the game's action.Union Today

The Dallas Mavericks are in a rut, suffering a blowout loss to the Toronto Raptors that has head coach Jason Kidd hinting at potential lineup changes. The team's struggles from beyond the arc and turnovers have hindered their progress, with the starting lineup including Daniel Gafford unable to get going. Cooper Flagg, working his way back from injury, showed promise but couldn't find his rhythm, while Max Christie had an off night. Kidd believes the Mavericks need to make a strategic shift and trust their young talent to turn things around.

Why it matters

The Mavericks have the potential to be a competitive team, but their recent string of double-digit losses is concerning. Their issues with ball handling and shooting are costing them games, and Kidd recognizes the need for a fresh start to find their rhythm and maximize their strengths.

The details

The Mavericks' starting lineup, which included the impressive Daniel Gafford, couldn't get it going against the Raptors. Cooper Flagg, working his way back from injury, showed promise but couldn't find his rhythm, and Max Christie, the team's deep threat, had an off night. The team's lack of playmaking is becoming a problem, and Kidd believes the recent addition of Ryan Nembhard, who hasn't played much, could be the answer. The Mavericks need to focus on their strengths and minimize their weaknesses, with the starting lineup needing to be dynamic and able to create opportunities for each other.

  • The Mavericks suffered a blowout loss to the Toronto Raptors on April 11, 2026.

The players

Jason Kidd

The head coach of the Dallas Mavericks, who hinted at potential lineup changes after the team's blowout loss to the Raptors.

Daniel Gafford

A member of the Mavericks' starting lineup, who was unable to get going in the loss to the Raptors.

Cooper Flagg

A Mavericks player working his way back from injury, who showed promise but couldn't find his rhythm in the game.

Max Christie

The Mavericks' deep threat, who had an off night in the loss to the Raptors.

Ryan Nembhard

A recent addition to the Mavericks who hasn't played much, but could be the answer to the team's struggles.

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What they’re saying

“We must not let individuals continue to damage private property in San Francisco.”

— Robert Jenkins, San Francisco resident

What’s next

The Mavericks will need to make strategic adjustments to their lineup and playing style to turn things around and find their rhythm. The team's young talent, including Nembhard, will likely be given more opportunities to contribute and provide a spark.

The takeaway

The Mavericks have the potential to be a competitive team, but their recent struggles with ball handling, shooting, and turnovers have hindered their progress. Kidd's willingness to make changes and trust the team's young talent could be the key to unlocking their full potential and getting the Mavericks back on track.