Still, Jason Kidd told ESPN.com he wants to play another season and would like for it to be with the Mavs. Which might seem like it could complicate Dallas's pursuit of Williams, but according to the report, the Mavs want Kidd back.
Sources with knowledge of the Mavericks' thinking likewise indicate that management is determined to find a way to re-sign the former Cal star in free agency even amid the roster clearout that Dallas has planned to create the requisite salary-cap space to pursue Dallas-area native Deron Williams in free agency this summer. Kidd's most recent three-year contract expires at season's end, but he long has been regarded as one of the Mavs' point men for recruiting free agents since returning to Dallas in 2008. Sources say, furthermore, that Kidd has a good relationship with Williams from their time playing together on Team USA.There's been light chatter about a potential Steve Nash-Dirk Nowitzki reunion, but the Mavs surely would be estastic to have Kidd as a backup to Williams. Plus, as Kidd's aged, he's developed an outside game hat's made him a pretty capable off guard.One source close to the situation, asked if bringing Kidd back remains part of the Mavs' plans, said: "Absolutely."
Again, he's 39, so it's not like he doesn't understand his time is likely short in the league. And bringing in an All-Star talent like Williams would clearly mean he'd slide over. But the Mavs evidently want him back. He's won a championship in Dallas, is an outstanding veteran to have and would fill any role necessary for the better of the team. While probably being one of the league's best backup point guards.
But before any of that happens, Dallas has to land their offseason prize in Williams, which isn't a guarantee. If it does or doesn't happen, they'll have a backup one way or the other though in Jason Kidd.