Western Conference: Predicting the final standings
By Ken Newhouse
Apr 15, 2013; Dallas, TX, USA; Memphis Grizzlies power forward Zach Randolph (50) guards Dallas Mavericks power forward Dirk Nowitzki (41) during the game at the American Airlines Center. Mandatory Credit: Jerome Miron-USA TODAY Sports
7. Dallas Mavericks
Rajon Rondo, Dirk Nowitzki, Chandler Parsons, Monta Ellis, and Tyson Chandler. Can anyone give me a reason why that can’t be the most talented starting five in the NBA? The Mavericks currently hold the 5th seed in the Western Conference just a half game ahead of Los Angeles in the standings.
The Mavericks are one of the worst teams against the top 8 in the Western Conference. They didn’t get their first win against a Western Conference playoff team until December 20th against San Antonio.
Recent injuries to Monta Ellis and Tyson Chandler have slightly effected the team. There’s no timetable to when they’ll be healthy again. The acquisition of Rajon Rondo hasn’t really translated into wins, as they still sit in third place in the Southwest Division.
Life will be tough for the Mavericks coming out of the All-Star break, as they will have matchups with Oklahoma City, Houston, Atlanta and Toronto. A banged up Ellis and Chandler won’t translate into wins down the stretch.
Prediction: 50-32
Next three: vs. @ Oklahoma City, vs. Houston, vs. Charlotte