‘Good Size And Vision’: Jason Kidd Praises Dalano Banton After First Practice With Dallas Mavericks

Grant AfsethOctober 7, 2025October 21, 2025no comment

Dalano Banton, Portland Trail Blazers, NBA

Photo by Soobum Im/Getty Images

Newly signed guard Dalano Banton took the floor for his first practice with the Dallas Mavericks on Tuesday, drawing praise from head coach Jason Kidd for his size, playmaking, and adaptability.

As DallasHoopsJournal.com reported, Banton joined the Mavericks on an Exhibit 10 contract, giving him the opportunity to compete for a roster spot through the remainder of training camp.

The 6-foot-9 Toronto native has appeared in 216 NBA games across stints with Toronto, Boston, and Portland, averaging 6.8 points, 2.2 rebounds, and 2.0 assists.

Jason Kidd Impressed by Dalano Banton’s Size and Passing Ability

Kidd was asked what stood out about Banton after his first session with the team, pointing to the 25-year-old’s combination of size and feel for the game. The Mavericks’ head coach said he’s familiar with Banton from past matchups and believes his versatility could translate well in Dallas’ system.

“A Canadian kid, big guard who can pass,” Kidd said after Tuesday’s practice. “We’ve seen him on the other side — had a good game against us last year. … He practiced a little bit with us today — first day — and it’s good to have him with us.”

Banton’s best performance against the Dallas Mavericks came on Dec. 1, 2024, when he played for the Trail Blazers. In that game, Banton scored nine points, grabbed three rebounds, and added five assists in 25 minutes of action.

Kidd said Banton’s physical tools and ability to facilitate make him an intriguing fit within the Mavericks’ pace-oriented offense.

“He’s got good size and vision,” Kidd said. “We’re excited to have him.”

Dallas Mavericks Evaluating Depth Ahead

Banton’s arrival comes as Dallas continues evaluating depth options ahead of the regular season. His role will likely include time in the preseason rotation as the coaching staff tests different combinations in practices and exhibition games.

The Mavericks still have one two-way contract slot open and will continue to monitor potential additions as camp progresses. Kidd emphasized that training camp remains an ongoing process to determine the final roster and rotation hierarchy.

“Can we get past two weeks?” Kidd said with a laugh. “Because it really is — we’re looking for the most skilled player that fits and deserves that spot. We don’t have a name yet, but we have some candidates, and we’re excited about those. We’ll see how training camp plays out in the next couple of weeks.”

Dallas will host the Charlotte Hornets on Saturday at American Airlines Center, marking the team’s only home preseason game before visiting Utah and Las Vegas to close the exhibition schedule.

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Grant Afseth

Senior Writer

Grant Afseth is a Senior Writer for DallasHoopsJournal.com, where he leads in-depth coverage of the Mavericks, Wings, and more. Between a focus on the latest news, closer looks at games, front office strategy, and more, Afseth provides objective coverage. Afseth contributes broader NBA coverage across platforms and has been cited in national outlets for his reporting and analysis. With nearly a decade of journalism experience, Afseth has covered the NBA and WNBA for multiple major outlets, including Athlon Sports, BallIsLife, Sportskeeda, and RG.org. He previously reported on the Indiana Pacers for CNHI’s Kokomo Tribune and the Mavericks for FanNation.

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‘Good Size And Vision’: Jason Kidd Praises Dalano Banton After First Practice With Dallas Mavericks