Coming off a successful 2023-24 campaign that saw the team post a 50-32 record and make a deep playoff run, culminating in a Western Conference title, the Mavericks have only gotten stronger. Their overall net rating of +2.1 (15th in the league) doesn't tell the whole story, as Dallas found another gear late in the season, particularly after acquiring Daniel Gafford and P.J. Washington. In the two months following these additions, the Mavericks boasted the NBA's second-best record at 21-7, showcasing top-six efficiency on both ends of the floor.
The offseason brought significant changes designed to address key weaknesses. The addition of Klay Thompson provides another potent offensive weapon, though his arrival initially raised questions about the team's defensive identity. However, the Mavericks have addressed these concerns with the acquisitions of Naji Marshall and Quentin Grimes, significantly upgrading their perimeter defense.
With these roster improvements, Klay Thompson finds himself in an optimal situation. The enhanced perimeter defense allows Thompson to focus on shooting and smart off-ball movement. Thompson's elite shooting (39.2% on catch-and-shoot threes post-injury) should thrive in Dallas' system, creating even more space for Luka Doncic and Kyrie Irving to operate and chaos for opposing defenses.
Speaking of Doncic, his historic playoff performance (28.9 points, 9.5 rebounds, and 8.1 assists per game) puts him in rarefied air with NBA legends like LeBron James, Nikola Jokic, and Oscar Robertson. With an improved supporting cast, Doncic is poised for an even more impactful season.
The Mavericks' offensive power was on full display in last season's playoffs. They torched the Thunder's defense in the conference semifinals, scoring 18.5 more points per 100 possessions than OKC had allowed in the first round. This offensive onslaught continued in the conference finals against the Timberwolves' vaunted defense.
Defensively, while the departure of Derrick Jones Jr. is noteworthy, the Mavs have assembled a more versatile unit. The late-season surge that saw Dallas rank 6th in defensive efficiency demonstrates the team's potential on that end of the floor. The additions of Marshall and Grimes, combined with the continued development of existing players, should help maintain this defensive improvement.
The Mavericks have a strong case for being the best in the West. The combination of star power, improved depth, and strategic additions makes this Mavericks team a formidable force that shouldn't be underestimated in any power-ranking discussion.
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