Masai Ujiri is making a strong early impression in his new role with the Dallas Mavericks. The former Toronto Raptors president and vice chairman executed his first major decision just weeks into the job, terminating head coach Jason Kidd on Tuesday.
Ujiri Takes Accountability
While initial reports described Kidd's departure as a mutual decision, Ujiri took full responsibility during a news conference on Wednesday. "What he has done for this organization we truly respect, so this was a very, very tough decision," Ujiri stated. "I have to be accountable with a decision like this. I also have to be very active in how I look at the organization from top to bottom."
In an earlier statement, Ujiri explained that after the team missed the playoffs for the second consecutive season, it was the right moment for a new direction. "We have high expectations for this franchise and a responsibility to build a basketball organization capable of sustained championship contention," he said. The Mavericks will now conduct a thorough search for a new head coach and evaluate their entire basketball operations staff.
Behind-the-Scenes Speculation
Reports suggest that Kidd had been seeking a promotion to president of basketball operations following the firing of general manager Nico Harrison in November. However, Mavericks governor Patrick Dumont reportedly informed Kidd that he would not be considered for a front-office role. The team then hired Ujiri earlier this month.
Kidd also reportedly approved the controversial trade that sent superstar Luka Doncic to the Los Angeles Lakers in February 2025, a move that ultimately led to Harrison's dismissal.
History Between Ujiri and Kidd
Past animosity between the two has been speculated, dating back to their time with the Brooklyn Nets and Toronto Raptors, respectively. After Ujiri's infamous "f*** Brooklyn" comment before a playoff game, Kidd, then the Nets coach, responded: "You gotta tell me who the GM is. I don't even know who that is."
Later, while Kidd coached the Milwaukee Bucks, Ujiri and the Raptors executed a trade that sent Greivis Vasquez to the Bucks in exchange for OG Anunoby and Norman Powell, a move widely seen as a steal for Toronto.
Financial Implications
The firing will be costly for the Mavericks, as Kidd is reportedly owed $40 million over the next four years. He had received two contract extensions, including one after the team's run to the 2024 NBA Finals.
In five seasons with the Mavericks, Kidd posted a 205-205 regular-season record and a 22-18 playoff record. However, his performance declined sharply after the Doncic trade, with his winning percentage dropping from .563 to .339.
