Feb 22, 2015; Dallas, TX, USA; Dallas Mavericks forward Dirk Nowitzki (41) and forward Chandler Parsons (25) share a laugh on the bench during the second half of the game between the Mavericks and the Charlotte Hornets at the American Airlines Center. The Mavericks defeated the Hornets 92-81. Mandatory Credit: Jerome Miron-USA TODAY Sports
9. Dallas Mavericks
2014-2015 Efficiency Rating: 41.3
Every ounce of energy and logic made the OKC Thunder look like they deserved a spot in front of the Mavericks. Then, factor in the coaching genius of Rick Carlisle, the bench’s efficiency last season even due to injuries and…well that’s about it.
Despite the genius of Carlisle, expect this bench to drop in the rankings rather quickly. Putting aside the DeAndre Jordan fiasco, the Mavs were forced to attempt a make-shift plan rather quickly.
Their roster reflects that. Names like Devin Harris, J.J. Barea and Charlie Villanueva return to hopefully solidify the bench. JaVale McGee and his entertainment value will be an interesting addition for sure.
Rookie Justin Anderson looks to get some time off the bench and ex-Maverick Samuel Dalembert returns for his swan song. After that, there isn’t too much that can contribute.
Yes, Carlisle will find a way to get the best out of that group. The success of the Mavericks is teetering on a precipice right now…and people really aren’t sure if they will regain their footing.
Wes Matthews is a great addition, if he was not coming off an Achilles injury. Who knows, maybe it is a desire for Dirk Nowitzki to do well that earned them this spot in the power rankings. But hey, the bench was supposed to be terrible last year and they weren’t; so there’s that at least.
The hope is the Mavericks surprise everyone and play as well as they did last year. It could happen if both Matthews and Chandler Parsons come back healthy. Don’t hold your breath, though. At least Mark Cuban will still be entertaining at games.
Next: Memphis Grizzlies