3. Dallas Mavericks
The Dallas Mavericks have had a solid start to the 2021-22 season. They are 11-9, holding down the No. 4 spot in the Western Conference. But, when doing a little digging, it is fair to wonder if that success is a mirage.
Dallas has a negative point differential on the season and is below average in both offensive and defensive ratings. That is not normally a recipe for success, as the team has had a few lucky breaks to get to where they are.
The most concerning thing about the Mavericks’ start has been the offense. Luka Doncic has not yet reached the level that he is capable of. Could the team’s lack of a secondary ball-handler, which they were attempting to acquire this offseason, be coming back to bite them?
Jalen Brunson has done well in the role, but his presence in the starting five leaves the bench shorthanded. Acquiring someone such as Kyrie Irving could help solve the Dallas Mavericks’ issues.
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Irving would provide the Mavericks with everything they are looking for in a secondary ball handler. He would take a ton of pressure off of Doncic, who would be afforded the chance to play off the ball a little more. Irving is more than capable of initiating the offense and being the lead facilitator.
A Big 3 of Luka Doncic, Kyrie Irving and Kristaps Porzingis would be quite daunting for opposing teams to slow down. Porzingis is well-equipped for that third superstar role given his skill set offensively. Without as much responsibility on offense, the Dallas Mavericks may be able to get a little more out of him on the defensive side of the ball where he has the tools to be a great rim protector.
