Dallas Mavericks: 5 reasons for optimism after a slow start

The Dallas Mavericks were pegged by most analysts to continue climbing this season. Luka Doncic was the favorite to win MVP coming into the year. The Mavs had the sixth-best point differential in the NBA last season leading some to predict Dallas to finish top three in the Western Conference.

Nobody was expecting what happened in the early going. The Mavericks had just eight wins after 21 games. The poor start culminated in a six-game losing streak that pushed Dallas to 14th in the West. They dealt with injuries, COVID issues, and a difficult schedule, but the slow start was still shocking and disappointing for fans.

The Mavs are starting to get back on track, and there are plenty of reasons to be optimistic. Here is a look at why supporters should believe in the team moving forward.

Dallas Mavericks fans should be optimistic after slow start

Their recent plays should have supporters excited. The Mavs have won three straight and four of their last five heading into the Feb. 12 game against the New Orleans Pelicans. The streak has vaulted them to 11th in the Western Conference, but Dallas is just two games behind the seventh seed in a crowded race.

The Dallas Mavericks should make the playoffs this season. ESPN’s BPI gives them over a 60 percent chance to qualify. They would love to finish in the top six to avoid the play-in, but their goal is to make a run in the postseason. Here are five reasons why fans should be optimistic about the team despite a slow start to the 2020-2021 season.

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