In a jaw-dropping twist that could rock the NBA landscape, the New York Knicks are reportedly preparing to execute one of the most audacious trade proposals in recent memory: acquiring Dallas Mavericks head coach Jason Kidd via trade.
Yes, you read that right—a coach-for-picks trade may be on the horizon, signaling just how desperate and determined the Knicks are to elevate their championship hopes. According to Bleacher Report’s Eric Pincus, the Knicks could send the Mavericks a 2026 first-round pick from the Washington Wizards (top-4 protected) and a 2026 first-round pick swap (also top-4 protected) in exchange for Kidd’s coaching rights.
This type of maneuver is almost unheard of in today’s NBA, but it’s not without precedent. The Los Angeles Clippers once traded a first-round pick for Doc Rivers, and the Milwaukee Bucks landed Kidd from Brooklyn back in 2014 for two second-round picks. In this scenario, Dallas gets a comparable return—and possibly some much-needed relief from growing internal tension.
The Knicks’ front office has made it clear they are moving in a bold new direction. The firing of Tom Thibodeau, despite the team’s Eastern Conference Finals run, stunned many around the league. But New York is not looking back. With their sights set on a new voice, their shortlist includes big names like Jason Kidd, Chris Finch, and Ime Udoka.
Unfortunately for New York, things haven’t gone smoothly so far. “Every inquiry so far has been met with a rejection,” one source close to the situation shared. Even the likes of Billy Donovan and Quin Snyder politely declined discussions.
That’s where Kidd comes in—and things get even more intriguing. Sources suggest that Jason Kidd may actually be looking for a fresh start himself, especially with the Mavericks shifting toward a youth-driven rebuild following the Luka Doncic blockbuster trade and the arrival of No. 1 pick Cooper Flagg. Kidd’s strong ties to former Mavs owner Mark Cuban may be waning in influence as the front office turns over. As one insider noted, “The new regime might want their own guy running the locker room.”
Trading Kidd now, from Dallas’ perspective, eliminates potential power struggles and earns them valuable draft compensation in return. From New York’s viewpoint, this is a calculated gamble for a bigger prize.
It’s not just Kidd’s recent Finals appearance with the Mavericks or his ability to maximize Jalen Brunson’s growth that excites the Knicks. It’s the tantalizing Giannis Antetokounmpo factor. Kidd played a pivotal role in Giannis’ transformation during their Milwaukee days, famously pushing the Greek Freak to embrace a point-forward role. With murmurs about Giannis’ long-term future surfacing again, bringing in Kidd could quietly position New York as a potential landing spot.
As Fadeaway World explains, “If there’s any scenario in which Kidd could help lure Giannis to New York, Leon Rose and the Knicks front office will pay the price.”
Critics may point to Kidd’s uneven coaching record, but his ability to lead stars and navigate postseason pressure is undeniable. His recent Finals run speaks volumes. If this coaching trade materializes, New York won’t just gain a coach—they might be unlocking the door to their next superstar addition.
“This is rare, it’s risky—but in today’s NBA, nothing is off the table,” says one league insider.
