Dallas Mavericks: What if Steve Nash never left in 2004?

Potential negative outcomes if Steve Nash stays with the Dallas Mavericks

The Mavericks would have won more games with Nash on the team. If he stays in Dallas, it is unlikley that the duo combines to win three MVP awards, though.

Super teams of this decade prove that it is hard to win an MVP award on one. The Warriors were the best team in the NBA in 2017 and 2018, but Russell Westbrook and James Harden won the Most Valuable Player honors. The Cavaliers featuring LeBron James, Kyrie Irving, and Kevin Love produced zero MVPs despite repeated trips to the finals.

The Nowitzki and Nash super team may have kept both players from winning MVP. Winning a title would have led to no complaints too.

The San Antonio Spurs were a powerhouse in the Western Conference at that time. Similarly to what is going on in Philadelphia right now, what if Dirk and Nash could never get over the hump together? Is there a world where the Mavs decide to trade Dirk or he leaves via free agency?

Nowitzki leaving him does not tarnish his overall legacy. Many of the all-time greats have played for multiple teams. Dirk’s longevity in Dallas made the 2011 championship so sweet. He earned his status as franchise GOAT through 21 straight years with the Mavericks.

Next: Potential positive outcomes