Newly appointed Dallas Mavericks president Masai Ujiri laid out his initial agenda on Wednesday, pledging an exhaustive head-coaching search and a long-term plan centered on 19-year-old forward Cooper Flagg.
Coaching vacancy tops to-do list
One day after the club and Jason Kidd agreed to part ways, Ujiri told reporters in Dallas that “every stone will be turned over” to find Kidd’s successor.
“We’re going to look everywhere—first-time, experienced, college, European—whatever is best for this organization,” he said, noting the contrast between the young coaches in the Western Conference Finals and the veteran bench bosses in the East.
Ujiri added he has not contacted any candidates, calling premature outreach “disrespectful to Kidd.” He dismissed speculation that Kidd’s reported role in the Luka Doncic trade influenced the decision, framing the move instead as a clean slate for the franchise.
Flagg at the center of long-term strategy
Ujiri repeatedly emphasized building around Flagg, the 2025 No. 1 overall pick. “Every decision we make is going to be future-based,” he said. The Mavericks hold the No. 9 selection in this year’s draft but lack control of their own unprotected first-round pick until 2031.
Irving still in the picture
The president confirmed the organization wants to see how Flagg meshes with veteran guard Kyrie Irving, who missed Flagg’s rookie campaign while recovering from a torn ACL. “There is only one Kyrie walking around in the world,” Ujiri recalled Kevin Durant telling him. “I think Kyrie will fit.” Ujiri said he has already discussed potential roles with Irving.
Finley’s future under discussion
Following executive Matt Riccardi’s departure, Ujiri said talks continue with franchise alumnus and interim general manager Michael Finley about a possible position within the front office.
The Mavericks hired Ujiri earlier this month after his decade-plus tenure leading the Toronto Raptors.
Source: Hoops Rumors
