Dallas Mavericks grab surprising spot in ESPN Power Rankings

Dallas Mavericks earn respect in ESPN Power Rankings

The Dallas Mavericks shocked some people during the 2019-2020 season. Few expected them to be a legit threat in the playoffs, but the superstar jump from Luka Doncic changed that. The Mavs lost out in the first round, but they made it a series against the Clippers.

Fans were left wondering what-if after their first postseason appearance since 2016. Some wish Dallas faced any other team in the first round because they believe the Mavericks would have won. Others wonder what would have been with a healthy Kristaps Porzingis. The Mavs were missing Dwight Powell, Jalen Brunson, Courtney Lee, and Willie Cauley-Stein during the Walt Disney World restart too.

2020 was only the beginning for the Mavericks. Luka will continue to improve as the roster around adds pieces. The Mavs believe they can be title contenders next season with two stars already in place. ESPN agrees. Let us take a look at where Dallas landed in their first Power Rankings of the 2021 season.

Dallas Mavericks rank 5th in ESPN’s Power Rankings

ESPN produced their first Power Rankings for the 2020-2021 season on the morning after the NBA Finals wrapped. The Lakers, Clippers, and Bucks held down the top three spots. The Mavericks checked in at number five on the list.

Dallas deserves to be ahead of the Celtics, Sixers, and Heat. Yes, they are quality teams, but the Mavs are better. ESPN gave Dallas plenty of respect putting them at five. Expect the Mavericks to quickly pass the Nuggets and move into the top four.

The entire organization is already working hard to take that leap into title contention. Never count out Luka Doncic or the Dallas Mavericks. Buckle up because it is going to a fun offseason heading into another outstanding year of Mavs basketball. Stay tuned.