The NBA is back! Just like your favorite superhero story, the league brings fun, entertainment, and a lot of uncanny subplots to unpack. That’s why NBA.com Philippines decided to preview the new season comic-book style. We pick out fantastic characters that will take the stage and new amazing arcs to watch out for. Bang! Pow! Boom! Let’s go!
What’s their superpower?
The Dallas Mavericks’ strength lies in their talented backcourt pairing of Luka Doncic and Kyrie Irving.
Yes, Dallas did have a dismal finish last season after making the blockbuster trade with the Brooklyn Nets to acquire Irving, but the skies remain bright for this duo. Irving is back after re-signing with the Mavs on a 3-year deal. This year looks like Irving is finally locked in and out to prove his critics wrong.
We saw glimpses last season of what this duo can bring to the table and although they didn’t snag a lot of wins, we still know they have the potential to dominate their opponents. The right amount of chemistry in ball handling and off-ball movements should help the two maximize their strengths while on the court together.
What’s their kryptonite?
Dallas ranked 25th in defense last season, a huge decline from their 5th finish during the previous year. The signing of JaVale McGee turned out bad as he looked like a shell of his old self and Christian Wood looked lost on defense most of the time. Doncic, despite his remarkable scoring abilities, struggled to stay in front of opposing guards.
As a result of their defensive lapses, they went out and signed Grant Williams, a versatile defender who is also capable of hitting from outside on the other end. They also drafted a young big man in Dereck Lively II, who has shown flashes in the preseason of being a solid defender down low. Dallas just needs to figure out how to mesh the right players together to strike a balance in both scoring and defending.
Who is their biggest hero?
Dallas needs to execute an excellent season to bounce back after missing the playoffs last season. And the one who’s going to lead them back in the postseason chase is none other than Luka Doncic.
Last season, Luka averaged 32.4 points, 8.6 rebounds and 8.0 assists en route to his fourth-straight All-NBA First Team selection. We know he can deliver the goods, may it be in the NBA or the international scene. Now, he is on a mission to finally translate his scoring explosiveness into actual wins for his team.
Who is their biggest villain?
One of their top matchups will be the Los Angeles Lakers. It was rumored that Kyrie was going to get traded to the Lakers and reunite with LeBron James. Although that never really transpired, the Lakers made several good offseason moves to become one of the top contenders in the West on paper. Dallas would have to show up and get ahead of the Lakers if it hopes to establish itself as a better team in the West.
How does their story (season) play out?
Until now, the upcoming season is still kind of blurry for the Mavs. Luka is sure to have another spectacular season but we’re not particularly sure if this would allow his co-star Irving to step up. They would need Irving and the other role players like Seth Curry, Williams, Dwight Powell, and Richaun Holmes to help with the offensive and defensive load. Dallas’ success will start with their superstar duo but they would need their role players to stand out as well so they can regain a spot in the playoffs.
