Feeling Good? Mavs Have Reasons for Optimism

This summer time, Dallas Mavericks followers obtained a glimpse of what a slim-down Luka Doncic can do. Within the EuroBasket event, Doncic scored 182 factors in seven video games. 

His finest efficiency got here Sept. 7 in opposition to France, the place he dropped 47, the second-highest complete in EuroBasket historical past and essentially the most in additional than 65 years. 

So is an MVP-type efficiency ok to steer Dallas again to contender standing? How good can the Mavs be this season?

The Athletic’s Tim Cato gives up his opinion. 

“I haven’t any issues that the Mavericks, if wholesome, can be good this season. They proved final 12 months that this collective group, even with some additions and departures, can succeed in opposition to the league’s finest groups,” Cato wrote. “They’ve one of many league’s finest gamers who units a ridiculously excessive flooring for achievement.”

One cause for optimism is the advance and play of Doncic. Through the season’s remaining three months, the three-time All-Star averaged 31.2 factors. He averaged 32.6 factors in opposition to the Phoenix Suns within the West finals. 

ESPN’s Brian Windhorst believes in Doncic’s enchancment, as he ranks this season as his finest “probability to get that first MVP.”

“An offense constructed round Doncic can thrum by way of the common season with sensible outcomes,” Cato wrote.

Final season, Dallas completed with a 52-30 file after beginning the 12 months 17-18. After buying and selling for Spencer Dinwiddie in February, the Mavs went 18-6.

Within the playoffs, the Mavs went 9-9 and gained their first playoff sequence since 2011. 

Can Dallas have a repeat efficiency this coming season? 

“I’ve the Mavericks profitable no less than 50 video games in most practical eventualities,” Cato wrote. “This season must be loved.”

If the Mavs can exchange the offensive manufacturing of Jalen Brunson, Dallas ought to have a sensible shot at bettering this season.

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