Dallas Mavericks: Despite Losing Record, Mavs Still a Playoff Team

Since the 2000 NBA season, the Dallas Mavericks have only missed the playoffs four times. As it currently stands, the team would not be a playoff team if the season ended today. The Mavs sit 3.5 games from the worst record in the West, but also sit three games from the eight seed.

Only time will tell if the team can scrap back into the playoff hunt. For now, it is way too early to hit the panic button.

Go back to the beginning of the season and examine how the team was forced to play the first 10 games without their star, Kristaps Porzingis. Not having his presence as down low really hurt the team’s second chance opportunities. Go back to the first game of the season where the team was outrebounded 57 to 46. A majority of the woes came from the defensive end where the team had 11 less rebounds than the Suns.

Their record may not support it but the Dallas Mavericks are a playoff team.

Along with rebounding, another key aspect the team struggled with is the lack of converted three pointers. The inclusion of KP in the lineup will allow the team to somewhat fix their woes from the three.

While KP has yet to find his rhythm from the behind the arc. his ability to shot can be a lethal weapon for the team. Once the big man finds his range, the team will get back to their scoring ways. Having their star back also allows other players to find range, as teams will be heavily focused on stopping his shot.