5 Predictions for the 2016-17 Dallas Mavericks

By Isaac Harris

Oct 15, 2016

Oct 11, 2016; Dallas, TX, USA; Dallas Mavericks guard Wesley Matthews (left) and guard Justin Anderson (right) celebrate a basket by the Mavericks against the Oklahoma City Thunder during the second half at the American Airlines Center. The Mavericks defeated the Thunder 114-109. Mandatory Credit: Jerome Miron-USA TODAY Sports /

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Oct 3, 2016; Dallas, TX, USA; Dallas Mavericks forward Dirk Nowitzki (41) watches his team take on the Charlotte Hornets during the first half at the American Airlines Center. Mandatory Credit: Jerome Miron-USA TODAY Sports /

5.) Dirk Nowitzki Will Average Under 29 Minutes a Game

Last year, at 37 years old, Dirk averaged over 31 minutes a game as the big fella continued his Hall of Fame career.

The Mavericks probably would have loved to rest Nowitzki more throughout the season, but simply couldn’t due to scoring deficiencies and injuries across the roster. Due to the injuries to Parsons and Williams, along with Matthews recovery, Nowitzki was asked once again to lead the team in scoring.

For the first time since his rookie season, I predict Dirk will average less than 29 minutes.

Nowitzki is 38 years old entering the season and the Mavs can’t afford to ask him to log over 30 minutes a night still. Although his scoring will be needed, the Mavericks will hopefully make a conservative effort to lower his minutes this season.

Harrison Barnes will get minutes at the small ball four spot while Powell and Acy will log minutes at the four off the bench. Dallas has numerous options this year behind Nowitzki at the four.

Next: Trade Market