✍️  Divyansh Kumar

🗓️ April 16, 2023

Where do the Mavericks go from here?

As a basketball fan, it’s hard not to notice the Dallas Mavericks’ success over the past decade. However, despite being one of the most accomplished teams during this period, their trophy cabinet remains comparable to the likes of perennial underachievers such as the Los Angeles Clippers, Milwaukee Bucks, Minnesota Timberwolves, and Washington Wizards.

It’s disappointing to see the Dallas Mavericks officially eliminated from play-in contention with one game left in the regular season, following their 115-112 loss to the Chicago Bulls on Friday night. This marks the first time the Mavs have missed the playoffs since the 2018-19 season, and it’s been a frustrating season for Luka Doncic, a future Hall of Famer.

Despite the disappointment, there’s a sense of relief that the season is finally coming to an end. The 2022-23 season has been a lacklustre one for the Mavericks, characterized by dysfunction and sluggish performance. It almost feels like the team is being ferried to their final resting place by Charon himself.

Despite having two exceptional guards in Kyrie Irving and Luka Doncic, the Dallas Mavericks are currently struggling. Struggling with a four-game losing streak, including two disappointing losses against the Charlotte Hornets. Despite their star power, the Mavs seem unable to secure victories at the moment.

As a result of their recent performances, the Dallas Mavericks have completely dropped out of the playoff race. Currently, as of March 27th, the team sits at the 11th position in the Western Conference with a record of 36-39.

Playoffs of Mavericks

Over the past decade of postseason play, the Dallas Mavericks have suffered early exits. Exits from the playoffs four times in the first round. They also have been eliminated in the conference semifinals another four times. While the Mavericks did make impressive runs to the Western Conference Finals in 2002-03 and the NBA Finals in 2005-06, they ultimately fell short of winning a championship both times.

The 2005-06 Finals, in particular, was a significant disappointment for the team and its fans. After taking a 2-0 series lead against the Miami Heat, the Mavericks were up by 13 points with just six minutes remaining in Game 3. However, they proceeded to lose that game and the next three, squandering a golden opportunity to claim the Larry O’Brien Trophy.

The following season was even more heartbreaking for the Mavericks. They won an NBA-best 67 games and Dirk Nowitzki was named the league’s MVP. Many believed that the team was finally poised to win a championship, but they suffered a stunning first-round upset at the hands of the Golden State Warriors.

The eighth-seeded Golden State Warriors pulled off an upset in the first round of the playoffs. This resulted in sending the Dallas Mavericks home after a six-game series. Unfortunately, Dirk Nowitzki, who had been a key player for the Mavericks during their playoff runs, struggled in the deciding game, scoring only eight points. This was a disappointing performance from Nowitzki, who had faltered in important playoff moments before.

Final Change for the Mavericks

The Western Conference has been fiercely competitive this season. Despite their struggles, the Dallas Mavericks are not completely out of the playoff picture. However, time is running out as the team only has seven games remaining in the regular season. Which could be enough to make a push for a postseason berth.

As a basketball fan, it’s always tough to see a team with as much potential as the Dallas Mavericks fall short of expectations. With a future Hall of Famer in Luka Doncic and a talented supporting cast, it’s hard not to wonder what could have been for the Mavs this season. While their playoff hopes may be dashed, there’s still reason to believe. This team can bounce back and contend in the seasons to come. With some smart offseason moves and a renewed sense of determination, the Mavericks can once again become a force to be reckoned with in the NBA.

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