Dallas Mavericks: Ranking the top-10 players of the decade

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PHOENIX, AZ – MARCH 08: Jason Kidd #2 of the Dallas Mavericks in action during the NBA game against the Phoenix Suns at US Airways Center on March 8, 2012 in Phoenix, Arizona. The Suns defeated the Mavericks 96-94. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Christian Petersen/Getty Images) /

5. Jason Kidd

Up next is one of my favorites, and in my opinion, one of the most underrated point guards of all time. Two-time Dallas Maverick, Jason Kidd, was drafted by the Mavericks with the second pick of the 1994 NBA draft. Kidd joined Jim Jackson, and Jamal Mashburn to form the “Triple J Ranch”. A short-lived Maverick big three that showed promise, but for some reason didn’t get along. R&B singer Toni Braxton is often credited with being the reason for the break up. An unsubstantiated claim that has become a part of Dallas Maverick lore.

The break up of the Triple J Ranch would see Kidd traded to the Phoenix Suns in 1996. Kidd would play well in Phoenix, making three all-star appearances in his five years as a Sun. Despite Kidd’s stellar play the Suns were never able to advance past the second round in the tough Western Conference.

Jason Kidd would then join the New Jersey Nets in 2001. Kidd would take a Nets team that won just 27 games the year before his arrival to the NBA finals in his second season on the team. Kidd would play seven seasons with the Nets before requesting the trade that brought him back to Dallas.

J Kidd would rejoin the Mavericks in February 2008. Kidd brought veteran leadership and elite backcourt defense to a team two years removed from nearly winning an NBA championship. Kidd and the Mavericks would become NBA champions just two years after Kidd rejoined the team. Jason Kidd’s understanding of the game and his well-rounded play were instrumental to the Mavericks Championship run.

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