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Dallas Mavericks: 5 predictions for the 2018-19 NBA season

By Adam Tayabali

DALLAS, TX - OCTOBER 12: Rick Carlisle and Devin Harris #34 of the Dallas Mavericks during the game against the Charlotte Hornets on October 12, 2018 at the American Airlines Center in Dallas, Texas. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. Mandatory Copyright Notice: Copyright 2018 NBAE (Photo by Glenn James/NBAE via Getty Images)
DALLAS, TX - OCTOBER 12: Rick Carlisle and Devin Harris #34 of the Dallas Mavericks during the game against the Charlotte Hornets on October 12, 2018 at the American Airlines Center in Dallas, Texas. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. Mandatory Copyright Notice: Copyright 2018 NBAE (Photo by Glenn James/NBAE via Getty Images) /
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Photo by Glenn James/NBAE via Getty Images.
Photo by Glenn James/NBAE via Getty Images. /

With so many new faces on the Dallas Mavericks, including Luka Doncic and DeAndre Jordan, here are five predictions for the 2018-19 regular season.

The Dallas Mavericks open the season against the Phoenix Suns on Wednesday. Although they’ll be without future Hall-of-Famer Dirk Nowitzki (ankle), this game is intriguing for multiple reasons. For one, it’s the first marquee matchup between star rookies. The Suns’ Deandre Ayton, taken with the No. 1 pick, and Luka Doncic, taken third overall by Dallas, are both favorites for Rookie of the Year.

Another reason to watch this season opener is to see what lineup combinations each coach puts out on the floor. Both the Mavs and Suns experienced major roster turnover this offseason in hopes of competing for a playoff spot in the chaotic Western Conference.

Even if it isn’t a clear-cut playoff squad, Dallas has many positives to look forward to, as seen this preseason. The chemistry of point guard Dennis Smith Jr. and Doncic as the future backcourt is intriguing. Both seemed to share many genuine moments off the court, but there’s only one basketball and figuring out how to share it isn’t always easy.

Another development to watch for is which young big man establishes himself as the immediate successor of Nowitzki, whether it be Dwight Powell, Kostas Antetokounmpo, Maxi Kleber or Raymond Spalding. The potential long-term fit alongside newcomer DeAndre Jordan and whether the coach Rick Carlisle prioritizes small-ball during crunch time will prove critical as well.

Most importantly, it’s clear from exhibition play that Dallas Mavericks basketball can be fun to watch again. Here are five predictions for the 2018-19 NBA regular season.

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