Mavericks Weigh Big Roster Decision Following Jason Kidd’s Hint
The Dallas Mavericks have just 10 regular-season games left. With the playoffs out of reach, the club is using the stretch run to evaluate young talent.
During a Monday pregame press conference, coach Jason Kidd signaled the team’s plan. He indicated that extended minutes for Ryan Nembhard are part of that evaluation.
Contract status and stakes
Nembhard saw his two-way deal upgraded to a standard contract earlier this season. That standard deal includes a team option for the following year. If Dallas declines it, Nembhard would become a free agent.
His roster future is therefore uncertain. The organization must decide whether to keep him or look elsewhere this summer.
Why he’s getting minutes now
Kidd said the staff wants to give new pieces meaningful playing time. The goal is to leave the offseason with a clearer picture of the roster. Nembhard has been one of the beneficiaries of that approach.
He has averaged more than 25 minutes per game over the last six contests. Kidd started him in four of those games. Brandon Williams missed three games with a concussion, which increased Nembhard’s opportunities.
On-court production
Over the six-game sample, Nembhard averaged 7.7 points and 7.2 assists per game. He shot 41.2 percent from deep during that span. Those numbers underline his playmaking strengths.
Scouts and coaches see him as a strong table setter. He still must become more assertive and create offense on his own. He has flashed three-level scoring at times this season.
Implications for the offseason
The Mavericks must address their backcourt around Kyrie Irving to return to contention. Nembhard could emerge as a trusted backup if Dallas chooses to invest in him. Alternatively, the team could decline the option and pursue other fits.
That choice is one of the tougher roster decisions the franchise faces. With Kidd’s hint and the end-of-season audition, the front office will have concrete data to inform its move.
Filmogaz.com will continue to follow developments as the Mavericks weigh the roster decision and prepare for the offseason.
