Kidd has proven to be exactly what the Southwest Division-leading Mavericks needed. Sure, the initial returns weren't promising to finish the 2008 season, as Dallas struggled with Kidd and fell in the first round.

"I thought it would improve us more that season. No question," Mavs owner Mark Cuban said. "It didn't, but that's ancient history."

But the marriage began to thrive midway through last season under Rick Carlisle. Kidd has since established himself as team leader, along with Dirk Nowitzki.

Harris did develop into an All-Star last season, but he's not the pass-first quarterback the Mavs, especially Nowitzki, longed for. Kidd, signed to a three-year contract this offseason for $25 million, has been.

"We wanted a little more leadership in the backcourt, somebody who knows how to lead a team, pass the ball, get everybody involved," Nowitzki said. "We got one of the best passers there ever was."

MAVERICKS 117, NETS 101: Dallas set a franchise record by shooting 81 percent in the first half and scored 49 points in the second quarter in a rousing rout at winless New Jersey. The Nets set a new NBA record for worst-ever start at 0-18.

The Mavs (14-5) were nearly perfect in the second quarter, shooting 15-of-17 and opening up a 27-point lead. Dallas is the first team to shoot at least 80 percent in a half since Denver in 2006.

Dirk Nowitzki led the balanced effort with 24 points, eight assists and seven assists. Jason Kidd had 16 points, 10 assists and eight rebounds. Erick Dampier added 18 points and 11 boards.