NBA: Way-too-early bold pre-season playoff predictions for the 2023-24 season

Western Conference 4th seed

4. Dallas Mavericks

I’ll be the first to admit that I’m a bit more optimistic about the Dallas Mavericks than many others are. I’m basically betting on the talent of Luka Doncic and Kyrie Irving and believe that they’re going to figure it out this season. Plus, I was high on the Mavs’ offseason moves in which they added a high-ceiling center in Derck Lively II and Grant Williams. All in all, I believe the Mavs are going to have a fantastic season this year.

During the regular season, I predict the Mavs are going to finish as the 4th seed. I think there could be some rough patches that they’ll need to work through and relying on a couple of rookie players, there’s going to be some sort of learning curve for the team. In the end, the Mavs are going to enter the postseason as a real threat.

Many may not agree with my next prediction for the Mavs but I do believe the duo of Luka and Kyrie is going to be one that no one will want to see in a seven-game series. If their supporting cast can rise to the occasion, the Mavs could make a deep run in the playoffs.