3 reasons why the Dallas Mavericks will contend for the NBA Finals

Last season, the Dallas Mavericks missed the NBA playoffs for the first time in three seasons. Here is why the team can make it back to the postseason and reach the NBA finals
Charlotte Hornets v Dallas Mavericks
Charlotte Hornets v Dallas Mavericks / Sam Hodde/GettyImages
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Last week, the Dallas Mavericks and their fanbase were blessed with the appearance of Luka Doncic.

On Friday, the Mavs' star played in an exhibition game for his hometown Slovenia against Greece. In a quarter and a half, he dropped in 18 points before leaving the game with what looked to be a minor knee injury.

Two days before, the Mavs' star made his first appearance with the team. Doncic notched a triple-double with 21 points, 14 rebounds, and 10 assists. Fans were blessed with some "Luka magic" as the Dallas All-Star completed a mean crossover that had fans amazed.

However, the biggest addition to Doncic's overall game has been his size. Doncic looks lean and skinny. In recent images and videos, he is seen doing a variety of intense cardio and core workouts. This is truly a compliment to his game, as fans and commentators have taken notice of his recent lifestyle.

Two weeks ago, Tim MacMahon talked about Doncic and his new physique.

"I would say the primary reason to believe the Mavs can bounce back, you just showed it, Luka looks lean."

Tim MacMahon

Other additions to the team include trading for Grant Williams, a defensive specialist who can play both the wing and forward positions. A couple of weeks ago, Williams spoke about his excitement to play alongside Doncic and Kyrie Irving. He expressed his role to be one of the team's top defensive anchors.

Along with Williams, the team upgraded their center position with the additions of rookie Dereck Lively II and veteran big man Richaun Holmes. All things considered, Dallas seems to be headed in the right direction.

So who says Dallas can't compete for the Larry O'Brien Trophy?

Here are three reasons why the Mavs will contend for the NBA finals next season.