When the Dallas Mavericks parted ways with Jason Kidd last week, the expectation was that Dallas would move fast in its search for a replacement. But as the interview process rolls through its second weekend, the list of known candidates has quietly expanded — and one familiar name appears to have separated from the pack.
Veteran NBA head coach Terry Stotts is among five confirmed candidates who have spoken with the Mavericks so far, according to NBA insider Marc Stein. The former Trail Blazers, Bucks, and Hawks head coach brings 13 years of head-coaching experience to the table, most notably leading Portland to eight straight playoff appearances from 2014 to 2021.
Stotts has spent the last three seasons as an assistant with the Golden State Warriors, where he helped develop young pieces and soaked up Steve Kerr’s system. For a Dallas roster that needs structure and a steady hand, Stotts represents the safest available option — a coach who has built winning cultures before, even if his postseason résumé lacks a Finals run.
The Full Candidate Board
Stein reports that the Mavericks have conducted interviews with all five candidates over the past week. Alongside Stotts, the list includes:
• Micah Nori (Timberwolves assistant) — earned praise for stepping in as acting head coach during Minnesota’s 2024 playoff run when Chris Finch was sidelined
• Royal Ivey (Rockets assistant) — former NBA player with strong player-development chops
• Jama Mahlalela (Raptors assistant) — known for creative offensive sets and a modern approach
• Tony Dobbins (Celtics assistant) — part of Boston’s championship staff, though with less head-coaching buzz
According to Stein, the Mavericks also made exploratory calls to Michigan’s Dusty May and Duke’s Jon Scheyer, but those conversations never advanced beyond a preliminary stage. Both college coaches appear to have declined further interest, leaving the search focused on candidates with NBA ties.
What Dallas Is Looking For
The Mavericks hold the No. 9 pick in the upcoming draft — a selection that becomes more intriguing given they landed Cooper Flagg with the No. 1 overall pick in 2024. The front office is believed to want a coach who can develop young talent while also commanding respect from a locker room that still features All-NBA guard Luka Dončić.
Stotts fits the bill better than most. His offensive system in Portland consistently ranked in the top 10 in efficiency, and he earned a reputation for maximizing Damian Lillard’s prime years. But he also took criticism for defensive shortcomings and playoff exits that often felt premature.
For a franchise that expects to contend, hiring Stotts would signal trust in experience over innovation. Going with Nori or Mahlalela would lean the opposite direction — betting on a younger voice to grow alongside the roster.
With the draft fast approaching, the Mavericks could make a decision before selection night. Whether they prioritize stability or upside will tell fans everything about the front office’s vision for the next chapter in Dallas.
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