Sorry Avery, It's time to Go

Over the past few years, Dallas Mavericks' owner Mark Cuban has remained steadfast on one thing, and that was he would not trade Dirk Nowitzki. Instead, Cuban and company brought in the 'missing link' in Jason Kidd who was anything but the veteran leadership the Mavs needed.

In the five games against the Hornets, Kidd averaged less than 8 points and 7 assists per game. Kidd also seemed to completely lose his touch as a shooter. Despite being "Mr. Triple Double" Kidd really added very little value to the franchise and in many cases left scoring opportunities on the court that would have likely been converted by Devin Harris.

While there is certainly plenty of blame that Kidd deserves, and Chris Paul's rise to elite status should be considered, the main problem with this Mavericks' team is Avery Johnson. From his time as a player of the San Antonio Spurs it was evident that Avery Johnson is a natural leader. Johnson is intelligent and intense, but he has lost his team. In the 2007 NBA Playoffs the Mavs were eliminated by the Golden State Warriors after entering the tournament as the top team in the league and an overwhelming favorite.

The true measurement of a coach is the ability prepare for every opponent and rally a team to victory. And while Avery Johnson may do so many things right as a coach, he has been unable to get it done in the playoffs. Much like Rick Carlisle couldn't get over the hump with the Detroit Pistons, Avery Johnson hasn't gotten the most out of his team. Dallas looked like a team without an answer for a New Orleans team which only has two real players needing to be shut down. While David West had a great series, he's still no Dirk Nowitzki.

The only way I can really see Avery Johnson keeping his job is if the Mavs make some major personnel changes in the offseason. Josh Howard, Jason Kidd and Jerry Stackhouse should all be on the chopping block, regardless of Avery's status with the team. Dallas owner Mark Cuban will only tolerate losing for so long, and he's not going to pass up the chance to make his team better for next season.

Even Mike D'Antonio thinks Avery Johnson failed to prepare his team for the playoffs