5 Teams that the Mavericks need to avoid in the playoffs next year

3. Golden State Warriors

I think that all Western Conference teams should want to avoid the Golden State Warriors when it comes to playoff time. They have more playoff experience than any team in the West.

Stephen Curry is the leader of the Warriors alongside long-time teammates Draymond Green and Klay Thompson. This squad is very scary to go up against in the playoffs if everyone can remain healthy.

The Warriors traded Jordan Poole for Chris Paul this summer, bringing in another veteran presence who will give them great depth at the guard position, as well as valuable experience. His fit on the team will be an intriguing storyline to follow.

All that being said, Golden State's three-point attack is their scariest weapon. If the Mavericks have defensive issues like they did last season, a healthy Warriors team would carve right through them on the offensive end.

Hopefully, Grant Williams, Olivier-Maxence Prosper, Dereck Lively II, and Richaun Holmes can step up on defense if Dallas does end up facing the Warriors.

If Dallas fails to make improvements, the Warriors could dispose of them quickly, just as they did a couple of years ago in the 2022 Western Conference finals en route to a fourth championship in eight seasons.