Jan 29, 2014; Dallas, TX, USA; Houston Rockets small forward Chandler Parsons (25) shoots the ball over Dallas Mavericks power forward Dirk Nowitzki (41) during the second half at the American Airlines Center. Parsons leads in scoring with 26 points. The Rockets defeated the Mavericks 117-115. Mandatory Credit: Jerome Miron-USA TODAY Sports
Dallas Mavericks (49-33 last season)
The Dallas Mavericks are looking to improve from a successful year, that ended losing in seven games to the NBA champions (San Antonio Spurs). The Mavericks added Tyson Chandler, Chandler Parsons, and Raymond Felton this off-season. The Mavericks signed Parsons after Houston chose not to match their offer. Parsons is a big upgrade over Shawn Marion, as he is a terrific shooter with the ability to make plays for others. Parsons is a terrific third option, behind Dirk Nowitzki and Monta Ellis. The Mavericks added Tyson Chandler in a trade with New York that sent Shane Larkin, Wayne Ellington, Samuel Dalembert and Jose Calderon to the Knicks. The Mavericks are hoping that Chandler is the defensive enforcer he has been in the past. The Mavericks also lost Vince Carter, who signed with Memphis. The Mavericks might not improve much in the win column but they are more of a threat to win than last year.