Dallas Mavericks: 2015-16 Season Outlook

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Mar 20, 2015; Dallas, TX, USA; Dallas Mavericks forward Chandler Parsons (25) reacts to missing a shot during the second half against the Memphis Grizzlies at the American Airlines Center. The Grizzlies defeated the Mavericks 112-101. Mandatory Credit: Jerome Miron-USA TODAY Sports /

Best-Case Scenario

Wesley Matthews not only returns at 100 percent, but he’s better than ever with such an increased role on both ends of the floor. Chandler Parsons also takes advantage of the expanded responsibility and turns in a career season, while Dirk is able to stay healthy and stave off statistical and physical regression for another season.

Zaza Pachulia and JaVale McGee do a surprisingly good job defending the rim, Devin Harris becomes an excellent sixth man and Deron Williams has a resurgent season with the change of scenery. The Mavs win 45 games but fall just short of making the playoffs in the brutal, deep Western Conference.

Worst-Case Scenario

Matthews is able to return, but doesn’t look the same after the Achilles injury and is unable to stay healthy for the full season. The Mavs are forced to eat his massive contract while Parsons fails to step up in an expanded role. Dirk continues to show signs of his age while Deron Williams plays the exact same as he has since leaving Utah.

The Mavs’ bench is a complete dumpster fire and Carlisle’s rotation of centers is ineffective. The Mavs unintentionally tank their way to a top-7 pick, which (fortunately) allows them to keep their 2016 draft selection.

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