NBA: 4 Teams whose stock is trending upward, 5 whose is falling quickly

PHOENIX, ARIZONA - APRIL 18: Kevin Durant #35 and Devin Booker #1 of the Phoenix Suns during the second half of Game Two of the Western Conference First Round Playoffs at Footprint Center on April 18, 2023 in Phoenix, Arizona. The Suns defeated the Clippers 123-109. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Christian Petersen/Getty Images)
PHOENIX, ARIZONA - APRIL 18: Kevin Durant #35 and Devin Booker #1 of the Phoenix Suns during the second half of Game Two of the Western Conference First Round Playoffs at Footprint Center on April 18, 2023 in Phoenix, Arizona. The Suns defeated the Clippers 123-109. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Christian Petersen/Getty Images)
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Dallas Mavericks
Luka Doncic and Kyrie Irving (Kevin Jairaj-USA TODAY Sports)

Dallas Mavericks: Trending upward

After an embarrassing end to last season in which they didn’t even qualify for the Play-In Tournament in the Western Conference, there were many who were doubting the Dallas Mavericks heading into this season. Despite a productive offseason, the Mavs were far from a guarantee to bounce back this year. However, through the first two weeks of the season, Dallas has been one of the best teams in the league.

The Mavs are 6-1 and have quietly gone about their business in the West, using their high-powered offense to get off to a much-needed quick start. Their defense is still very much a work in progress but the early signs for this team are encouraging. If the Mavs can remain healthy, this is a team that should be able to finish as a top 4 team in the West.

Luka Doncic looks like an MVP candidate once again and Kyrie Irving has quietly been a team player so far this season. Many didn’t think the Mavs would factor much in the West this season. At least thus far, that seems to be wrong.