Mavericks Coach Kidd Reiterates Lack of Involvement in Doncic Trade

Kidd continues to distance himself from franchise-altering deal that sent star player to Lakers

Apr. 3, 2026 at 4:52pm

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A fractured, geometric painting in bold, contrasting colors depicting an abstract basketball game or match, with players and the court reduced to sharp, overlapping planes and shapes.The Mavericks' turbulent season is reflected in a fragmented, Cubist-inspired illustration that captures the team's struggle to find stability and direction.Dallas Today

Dallas Mavericks head coach Jason Kidd once again addressed his lack of involvement in the blockbuster trade that sent star player Luka Doncic to the Los Angeles Lakers last year. Kidd reiterated that he was not part of the decision-making process and was only informed of the trade at the last minute, contradicting previous statements from Mavericks owner Mark Cuban.

Why it matters

The Doncic trade remains one of the most controversial decisions in recent Mavericks history, significantly altering the franchise's trajectory. Kidd's continued distancing from the move raises questions about the internal dynamics and decision-making within the organization.

The details

Kidd addressed the situation in a video, stating: 'As I said in Milwaukee, understanding that we have the best owner in the league, the best fans... I know one of our owners Mark Cuban had mentioned I knew about the trade so unfortunately as I've said, I was not part of the process and I was informed at the 11th hour. And that's the truth.' This contradicts previous comments from Cuban, who suggested both Kidd and the front office were aware of the deal.

  • Kidd made the comments on April 3, 2026, ahead of the Mavericks' game against the Orlando Magic.
  • The Doncic trade occurred last year, reshaping the Mavericks' roster and future.

The players

Jason Kidd

The head coach of the Dallas Mavericks, who has consistently maintained that he was not involved in the decision to trade star player Luka Doncic.

Mark Cuban

The majority owner of the Dallas Mavericks, who previously suggested that both Kidd and the front office were aware of the Doncic trade.

Luka Doncic

The former star player of the Dallas Mavericks, who was traded to the Los Angeles Lakers in a move that reshaped the franchise's trajectory.

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What they’re saying

“As I said in Milwaukee, understanding that we have the best owner in the league, the best fans... I know one of our owners Mark Cuban had mentioned I knew about the trade so unfortunately as I've said, I was not part of the process and I was informed at the 11th hour. And that's the truth.”

— Jason Kidd, Head Coach, Dallas Mavericks

“That doesn't justify it for our coach and our general manager to stand up and trade our best player.”

— Mark Cuban, Majority Owner, Dallas Mavericks

What’s next

The Mavericks will look to close the season on a stronger note as they begin a two-game homestand, starting with the Orlando Magic on Friday night.

The takeaway

The ongoing fallout from the Luka Doncic trade continues to be a source of tension and uncertainty within the Mavericks organization, with the head coach and ownership seemingly at odds over the decision-making process. This situation highlights the challenges the team faces in moving forward and rebuilding around a new core.