NBA Player Power Rankings: Stars Getting Hot at Perfect Time

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Mar 20, 2016; Dallas, TX, USA; Dallas Mavericks forward Dirk Nowitzki (41) celebrates with teammates after scoring a three point basket in overtime against the Portland Trail Blazers at American Airlines Center. The Mavs beat the Trail Blazers 132-120. Mandatory Credit: Matthew Emmons-USA TODAY Sports /

20. Dirk Nowitzki, Dallas Mavericks

Position: Power Forward

Age: 37

Slash Line: .464/.386/.893

Season Averages: 31.4 MPG, 18.8 PPG, 6.7 RPG, 1.8 APG, 0.8 BPG, 1.7 3PM

After spending most of the season on the bubble of the Top 20, Dirk Nowitzki has made a resounding reentry at the tail-end of the season. Often written off as past his prime, Nowitzki is proving that he still has another postseason push in him.

Dallas will need to finish the season strong in order to make the playoffs, but Nowitzki has made that possible with his stellar play.

Nowitzki began the most recent week with 24 points, nine rebounds, four assists, and three blocks on 9-of-16 shooting against Draymond Green and the Golden State Warriors. It was an impressive showing from Nowitzki, who posted 21 points and nine rebounds against the Portland Trail Blazers later that week.

Between those two very strong outings was vintage Dirk.

Nowitzki dropped 40 points on the Trail Blazers, shooting 16-of-26 from the field, 3-of-5 from 3-point range, and 5-of-5 from the free throw line. Dallas held on for a 132-120 win as the 37-year-old became the oldest player to score 40 points in a game since Karl Malone in 2003.

Nowitzki may or may not remain in the Top 20 until season’s end, but he’s averaging 25.1 points on 53.6 percent shooting over his past 10 games.

Next: The Other Star Up North