Dallas Mavericks
2017-18 record: 24-58
2017-18 season series: 2-0, Sixers
2018-19 advantage: Sixers
The Mavericks have the chance to make some noise this season. Luka Doncic should contribute right away and DeAndre Jordan is an impactful addition on both ends. Rick Carlisle has a strong, balanced rotation to work with.
With that said, the Mavs remains a few years away from reaching their ceiling as a group. Harrison Barnes and Wes Matthews are solid veterans, but the development of Doncic and Dennis Smith Jr. will determine their long-term success.
Until that ceiling is reached, the Sixers will be firmly ahead of Dallas in power rankings. Simmons, Covington and Embiid cover all the bases defensively. Brett Brown’s up-tempo offense can still outgun the Doncic-led Mavs.
Dallas will put up a good fight, but the Sixers are the clear favorites here. Doncic and Smith are young, Jordan is approaching the end of his prime, and the roster isn’t elite in any one area.