Dallas Mavericks: Where must they improve to become title contenders?

Examining the Dallas Mavericks roster to see if they already are title contenders

It takes more than one star player to win a title. LeBron James had Anthony Davis last season. Stephen Curry teamed up with Klay Thompson and Kevin Durant to win three championships. The Mavericks have Kristaps Porzingis, but is he capable of being the second-best player on a title team? They looked dangerous inside the bubble with Luka and KP on the floor, but Porzingis’ meniscus injury sunk the team’s chances.

Dallas has a strong cast of role players behind their two stars. They have seven players that would fit in any playoff rotation and multiple fringe options that could be key depending on the matchup. Their next five players are all best suited as at best fourth or fifth options on a championship contender, though. The Mavericks lack another game-changer that can alter a series.

Their roster has some deficiencies that need plugging before Dallas can challenge for a title. Jalen Brunson is a steady backup point guard, but the Mavs must have another capable ball-handler and creator. They attempted to improve their defense in the offseason, but they need more help on that end of the floor. There is also the question of adding a third star.

Let us take a closer look at the deficiencies that are keeping the Dallas Mavericks from being title contenders.

Next: Need a third star?