Dallas Mavericks: Three things that should scare the team

Injuries

This one is already rearing its ugly head for the Dallas Mavericks. Dirk Nowitzki and Devin Harris have essentially missed the entire season so far. Each of these veterans plays an important part on the team when they get on the court, but since the Mavs haven’t had access to them, others have had to step up.

This has put more minutes on some guys that may not be fully ready for that kind of responsibility. Some guys have really stepped up well but it would still be nice for the team to have these guys on the court.

Dirk and Devin are not the only guys who have been injured for the Mavs this year. Dennis Smith Jr. was out for a game after rolling his ankle against the Atlanta Hawks. Smith had a few minor injuries in his rookie season as well, which is something to keep an eye on.

Harrison Barnes missed the first four games of the season with a hamstring injury. He has looked like he is getting better and better, but hamstring injuries can always be a little tricky. It would not be good to lose HB for a lengthy part of this season, especially if the Mavs are aiming for the playoffs.

Although Luka Doncic hasn’t missed any games, he has had multiple occasions where he has knocked knees or rolled his ankle a little where it looked like he may come out. He is fighting through all of these things for now, but I am sure Carlisle is keeping close tabs on his wear and tear this year.

Injuries have been an issue for the Mavs in the past and continues to plague the league as a whole on a regular basis. If the Mavs can overcome the injury bug, the three-point shooting woes, and the free throw issues, they could be a dangerous team this year. Just need to take things one step at a time.