Dallas Mavericks Outlook: Over/Under on ESPN Projections?

By Paul Wang

Oct 9, 2017

DALLAS, TX - MARCH 7: Dirk Nowitzki #41 of the Dallas Mavericks high fives with a fan after the game against the Los Angeles Lakers on March 7, 2017 at the American Airlines Center in Dallas, Texas. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. Mandatory Copyright Notice: Copyright 2017 NBAE (Photo by Glenn James/NBAE via Getty Images) /

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DALLAS, TX – MARCH 23: Wesley Matthews #23 of the Dallas Mavericks handles the ball during the game against the Los Angeles Clippers on March 23, 2017 at the American Airlines Center in Dallas, Texas. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. Mandatory Copyright Notice: Copyright 2017 NBAE (Photo by Glenn James/NBAE via Getty Images) /

4. Wesley Matthews

"FG% FT% 3PM REB AST STL BLK PTS 2016-2017 Statistics .393 .816 2.4 3.5 2.9 1.1 0.2 13.5 ESPN 2018 Projections .383 .805 2.5 3.7 2.4 1.2 0.2 13.0"

Perhaps the most polarizing figure on the team, Wes’ streaky shooting over the last couple of seasons have had plenty of Mavs fans calling for a trade.

While I too dreaded watching his ineffective post game and prolonged shooting slumps, Wes’ dogged effort made him one of my favorite players on the roster. Although there were games where he could never sink that crunch-time three, there were countless others where his grit and defense kept us within striking distance.

Now with Dennis Smith in the mix, Matthews stands to benefit from a lessened offensive responsibility. Rather than creating his own shot, Matthews will be able to roam outside the arc while dedicating his energy to what he does best — locking down the other team’s primary scorer.

Turning to ESPN’s projections, the numbers are in line with my expectations for Wes this year. However, as in the case of Dirk, the Mavericks are sold short on their shotmaking ability. I am fully confident that under this season’s revamped offense, Wes will reclaim his once lethal shooting and easily break .400 in FG%.

Verdict: PUSH (over on FG%)

Next: Seth Curry