NBA: Blockbuster trades, LeBron James’ decline, other 2021 bold predictions

Los Angeles Lakers LeBron James (Kim Klement-USA TODAY Sports)
Los Angeles Lakers LeBron James (Kim Klement-USA TODAY Sports)
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Dallas Mavericks
Dallas Mavericks Luka Doncic (Photo by Kevin C. Cox/Getty Images)

NBA prediction: The Dallas Mavericks will be a top 3 team in the West

While there will be some teams in the Western Conference that will be considered somewhat of a disappointment this season, I believe that the Dallas Mavericks will have a special season this year.

Assuming that they remain healthy for the majority of it and that Kristaps Porzingis will return sooner rather than later from injury, I believe the Mavs will finish as a top 3 seed in the Western Conference.

Luka Doncic is just scratching the surface of the player he can be and will have his best season to date. I’m not sure if the Mavs have the top-level talent to overcome the Lose Angeles Lakers or LA Clippers in the playoffs, but this is a team that is set up to have a great regular season. With a puncher’s chance heading into the playoffs, anything can happen.