Preseason Preview

This team has about as much talent as any of the elite squads and they’re playing up to that level. They’re currently second in the West and just about every player is living up to expectations. Aside from Josh Howard, they’ve had no significant injuries.

At 36 years old, Jason Kidd is still leading the team from the point and Dirk Nowitzki is still pouring in points. The question remains if they can compete with the Lakers. They beat the Lakers in their second game of the season but that was without Pau Gasol and they have lost to them twice since.

Ready to Breakout vs. Reality: I thought Shawn Marion would be a bigger factor joining forces again with Jason Kidd. But Marion has slightly underachieved so far. He still fits in well and is a good asset for this team.

Over the Hill vs. Reality: No one is over the hill yet. They are all performing as expected.

Worst/Best Moment: It’s tough to pinpoint a best or worst moment – so I won’t. They haven’t had a losing streak longer than two games and haven’t won more than five in a row. They’re a very good team of veterans who all know their roles.

Best Case Scenario: They finish as the two-seed in the West and reach the Western Conference Finals. With some luck they push the Lakers to a Game 7 and have a chance to reach the Finals.

Worst Case Scenario: A couple teams catch fire and they find themselves without home court advantage in the first round. They take an early exit from the playoffs and this team of veterans becomes one year older heading into 2010-2011.

NBA Midseason Reports