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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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Nov 24, 2014; Dallas, TX, USA; Indiana Pacers guard Donald Sloan (15) defends against Dallas Mavericks guard Jameer Nelson (14) during the second half at the American Airlines Center. The Pacers defeated the Mavericks 111-100. Mandatory Credit: Jerome Miron-USA TODAY Sports
Nov 24, 2014; Dallas, TX, USA; Indiana Pacers guard Donald Sloan (15) defends against Dallas Mavericks guard Jameer Nelson (14) during the second half at the American Airlines Center. The Pacers defeated the Mavericks 111-100. Mandatory Credit: Jerome Miron-USA TODAY Sports /

4. Point Guard Play

The Mavericks entered the season hoping to rely on a trio of point guards that includes veterans Jameer Nelson, Raymond Felton and Jose Juan Barea. Jameer Nelson has improved of late, but he’s only shooting 38 percent from the field while averaging 7.7 points and 4.4 assists per game.

Raymond Felton injured his ankle during the preseason and he has yet to suit up for Dallas. Felton has practiced with the team but he has yet to be activated for a game. Barea has been a bright spot off the bench for the Mavericks but head coach Rick Carlisle would like to limit his time on the court as he can become a defensive liability with extended minutes.

Playing alongside Monta Ellis, Dirk Nowitzki and Chandler Parsons generates a number of quality looks for Jameer Nelson and Jose Barea. These open looks must begin translating to points as opposing defenses must respect each shooter on the court.

Next: Trade Deadline Deal

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