5 Expectations for the Dallas Mavericks This Season

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Apr 13, 2016; Dallas, TX, USA; Dallas Mavericks forward Dirk Nowitzki (41) attempts a three point shot against the San Antonio Spurs during the first half at the American Airlines Center. Mandatory Credit: Jerome Miron-USA TODAY Sports /

5) The Mavericks Need to Return to the Playoffs

The Dallas Mavericks have made the playoffs in 15 of the last 16 years, and that shouldn’t change this year. As long as Dirk is in Dallas, the Mavs are capable of getting to the postseason. The Western Conference is competitive every year, and Dallas will need to put together another solid winning season to get a playoff berth. With a revamped roster and Rick Carlisle manning the helm, this is the expectation in the Big D.

If things go well and they avoid any big injuries, the Mavericks have the capability to get the 4th or 5th seed, which would give them a legitimate shot at getting to the second round of the playoffs. That hasn’t happened in a number of years and would be a huge success for the organization and a gift to Nowitzki who is closer and closer to pulling the curtains on his career.

Next: 6 Stats to Monitor This Season

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