NBA Players on the Spot

The Mavs didn't acquire Kidd -- giving up on-the-rise Devin Harris in the process -- to lose in the first round of the playoffs, which they did after the 35-year-old's late-February arrival last season. For the trade to pay dividends, Kidd needs to lead Dallas on a deep postseason run, one the Mavs feel is more possible with new coach Rick Carlisle's emphasis on opening up the offense and letting his veteran point guard create in transition.