Jason Kidd among names linked to Blazers coaching search

The Trail Blazers are already deep into their coaching search. But another interesting name may be quietly hovering around the process.

According to HoopsHype’s Michael Scotto, former Mavericks coach Jason Kidd has been loosely connected to Portland within league circles following his departure from Dallas earlier this week.

Dallas Mavericks head coach Jason Kidd — File photo

Whether anything serious develops remains unclear.

The Blazers already have interviewed multiple candidates and reportedly are continuing to move forward with in-person meetings. There are also legitimate questions about whether Portland would even be willing — or able — to meet Kidd’s asking price.

New majority owner Tom Dundon has developed a reputation around the league for cost-cutting, while Kidd is still owed more than $40 million from the Mavericks over the final four years of his contract.

There’s also the power structure issue.

Kidd has reportedly shown interest in having more influence over basketball personnel decisions, but Portland already extended general manager Joe Cronin last year. That likely complicates any potential fit.

Still, the connection isn’t completely random.

Damian Lillard publicly pushed for Kidd during Portland’s previous coaching search back in 2021 before the organization ultimately hired Chauncey Billups.

“Jason Kidd is the guy I want,” Lillard told Yahoo Sports at the time.

Now, with Billups out after being arrested and placed on leave earlier this season amid a federal gambling investigation, the possibility of Kidd resurfacing in Portland has naturally gained traction again.

Of course, there are still plenty of moving parts here.

Kidd almost certainly will draw interest elsewhere, and the Blazers may ultimately prioritize a younger or less expensive option as they continue reshaping the franchise around Scoot Henderson, Shaedon Sharpe and the next phase of the roster.