4 Teams the Dallas Mavericks could destroy in first round of the playoffs

2. Oklahoma City Thunder

One matchup that could become a realistic possibility for the Dallas Mavericks is the Oklahoma City Thunder. If the Mavericks fall to the No. 7 seed, OKC would play host to Dallas in a first-round matchup.

So, why would this be a good thing for the Mavs?

Well for one, the last time Dallas played the Thunder, they fell by seven points as they were without All-Star Luka Doncic. The team also did not have their starting guard Josh Green as he hurt his ankle.

A month prior, Dallas had beat OKC by 35 points, as both Doncic and Green started. Doncic
led the way with 32 points. He had outperformed MVP favorite Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, who had 25 points. Newcomers Daniel Gafford and P.J. Washington also stole the show; they combined for 33 points and 14 rebounds.

Another factor that works in Dallas' favor is their playoff experience. Both Doncic and Kyrie Irving have experienced success in the playoffs. Doncic helped the Mavs advance to the Western Conference Finals just two years ago.

Kyrie on the other hand is a 2016 NBA Champion. He has made the playoffs for most of his career. His experience is what helps set Dallas apart from the Thunder. They are still a young team with not a lot of playoff experience.

So, who says no to a Dallas-OKC playoff matchup?