NBA Power Rankings: Each Team’s Starting 5 On Paper

Apr 28, 2015; Houston, TX, USA; Dallas Mavericks forward Dirk Nowitzki (41) attempts a shot during the fourth quarter as Houston Rockets forward Josh Smith (5) defends in game five of the first round of the NBA Playoffs at Toyota Center. The Rockets defeated the Mavericks 103-94 to win the series 4-1. Mandatory Credit: Troy Taormina-USA TODAY Sports

24. Dallas Mavericks

Starting Five: Deron Williams, Wes Matthews, Chandler Parsons, Dirk Nowitzki, Zaza Pachulia 

Starting Five Rating: 15

The misfortune of the Dallas Mavericks missing out on DeAndre Jordan is really reflected on this ranking. Even when including Wes Matthews as healthy, which may or may not be the case at any point this season, the Mavericks still turned in a failing rating.

If this ranking is anything close to right, the Mavericks can kiss any shot at the playoffs goodbye. Their only shot, really, is if Deron Williams and Dirk both find a fountain of youth – and that’s not entirely possible. Of course, Parsons could begin playing up to the contract he signed, too.

Next: Charlotte Hornets