Jason Kidd sends urgent demand to Heat player he used to coach with Mavericks

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Former Dallas Mavericks head coach Jason Kidd has a clear message for Miami Heat guard Tim Hardaway Jr. as the team looks to overcome its early-season shooting struggles.

During his debut appearance on ESPN’s “NBA Today” on Thursday, Kidd urged Hardaway to improve his perimeter shooting after a disappointing start to the 2026-27 season.

The comments came as ESPN’s Brian Windhorst discussed Miami’s offseason additions and the importance of outside shooting to the team’s success.

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“They really tried to load up on shooters. Signed THJ, and Klay Thompson. They haven’t been hitting shots,” Windhorst said. “You say they get to top 10 defense, I agree with you. I think they do improve dramatically. If they don’t start making outside shots, they’re gonna have to be one of the greatest defenses of all time.”

Kidd, who previously coached both Hardaway and Thompson in Dallas, emphasized the importance of getting more consistent production from his former players.

Jason Kidd and Brian Windhorst say Tim Hardaway Jr has to start knocking down some shots:

Windy: They really tried to load up on shooters. Signed THJ, and Klay Thompson. They haven’t been hitting shots. You say they get to top 10 defense, I agree with you. I think they improve… https://t.co/QaiJIlj0urpic.twitter.com/UdsSYeIA3s

— Heat Central (@TheHeatCentral) November 5, 2026

“I just think that understanding Klay that’s a big one, going back home,” Kidd said. “They gotta get Timmy. Timmy has to start knocking down some shots.”

Tim Hardaway Jr. struggling to find his shooting touch with Heat

Hardaway, 34, has struggled offensively through his first eight appearances with Miami, averaging just 5.8 points and 1.6 rebounds in 16.9 minutes per game.

The veteran guard is shooting 30.4% from the field, 26.5% from 3-point range and 69.2% from the free-throw line, putting him on pace for career lows in several statistical categories.

Miami signed Hardaway to provide additional perimeter scoring and floor spacing alongside Giannis Antetokounmpo and Bam Adebayo. However, his inability to consistently convert outside shots has limited his offensive impact.

Hardaway previously played under Kidd in Dallas before continuing his career elsewhere. His familiarity with Kidd’s coaching approach makes the former Mavericks coach’s assessment particularly notable.

Meanwhile, Thompson delivered a much-needed offensive boost Wednesday night, scoring 30 points and connecting on eight 3-pointers in Miami’s 117-116 overtime victory over the Los Angeles Clippers.

Thompson also knocked down the game-winning 3-pointer as the Heat overcame a 20-point deficit to secure their third victory of the season.

Jason Kidd sends urgent demand to

The Heat (3-5) will look to build on Wednesday’s victory when they face the Golden State Warriors (5-3), who enter Thursday night’s matchup riding a five-game winning streak. The game is scheduled for 10 p.m. ET on NBA TV.

For Hardaway, the upcoming stretch presents another opportunity to regain his shooting rhythm and establish himself as a reliable contributor in Miami’s rotation.

As Kidd made clear, the Heat need more from their veteran guard if they hope to maximize the offensive potential of their revamped roster.

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