Dallas Mavericks
2015-16 Record: 42-40, 6 seed in Western Conference
Entering last season, many thought that the Dallas Mavericks could be a tanking candidate after they lost out on DeAndre Jordan in that whole emoji saga. However, the Mavericks put together an excellent season, considering the amount of talent on their roster.
The front office went to work again this offseason, and was able to keep players once they agreed to a contract. The major signing is Harrison Barnes after he was castaway from Golden State. He is another guy that people will judge this season, whether he is worth the max contract he received. Barnes will expect to be a playmaker, rather than a shooter in the corner.
Dirk is back again, thanks to a two year extension, and should be the focal point of the offense until he shows signs of slowing down. Second-year guard Justin Anderson will be looked upon to shoulder a heavier load as he could be on of the team’s starters at times this year. The wildcard signing of Seth Curry could provide a nice punch off of the bench.
Can they compete with the Spurs and Grizzlies? Eh, probably not. The talent is there, but right now there is a lot remained to be seen. For basketball fans infatuated with Dirk’s game like myself, hopefully they will be competing in late April and June.