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Dallas Mavericks: 5 Keys To Becoming A Contender

By Brandon Jennings

Dec 13, 2014; Dallas, TX, USA; Dallas Mavericks guard Monta Ellis (11) drives to the basket during the first quarter against the Golden State Warriors at the American Airlines Center. Mandatory Credit: Jerome Miron-USA TODAY Sports
Dec 13, 2014; Dallas, TX, USA; Dallas Mavericks guard Monta Ellis (11) drives to the basket during the first quarter against the Golden State Warriors at the American Airlines Center. Mandatory Credit: Jerome Miron-USA TODAY Sports /
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Dallas Mavericks
Dec 13, 2014; Dallas, TX, USA; Dallas Mavericks forward Brandan Wright (34) and guard Jameer Nelson (14) fight for the ball with Golden State Warriors guard Stephen Curry (30) during the second half at the American Airlines Center. The Warriors defeated the Mavericks 105-98. Mandatory Credit: Jerome Miron-USA TODAY Sports /

1. Transition Defense

The Mavericks currently rank last in the league in transition defense, allowing 16.5 fast break points per game. This would not be as much of an issue if Dallas played in the Eastern Conference but teams in the Western Conference like to play an up-tempo style and push the ball. When facing teams like the Golden State Warriors, Phoenix Suns and Houston Rockets, it is imperative that Dallas works to prevent easy baskets in the open court.

Improving transition defense will take a concentrated effort from each member of the Mavericks’ roster. The Mavericks are the highest scoring team in the NBA but those extra points mean little if they are allowing their opponents to score easily in transition.

Next: Rebounding

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