Dallas Mavericks: 3 critical goals for their NBA playoff run

The Dallas Mavericks have made their second playoff appearance in two years. In a twist of fate, they are playing the LA Clippers in the first round for the second straight year. They are looking to reverse last season’s first-round exit.

In an effort to bolster their playing stocks for this season they traded Seth Curry to the Philadelphia 76ers. In return, they received Tyler Bey and Josh Richardson in the deal. Richardson proved to be a key starter for the Mavericks this season.

Their moves did not stop there in the preseason. In a three-team trade, they sent Justin Jackson, a 2023 second-round pick and a 2026 second-round pick. The Mavericks also sent Delon Wright to the Detroit Pistons. They received James Johnson from the OKC Thunder.

The Dallas Mavericks were not done making moves.

Prior to the deadline the Mavericks then traded Wesley Iwundu, Johnson, and a 2021 second-round draft pick to the New Orleans Pelicans. In return, they received Nicola Melli and J.J. Redick. Unfortunately for the Mavericks, neither of these players have been able to move the needle too much.

Despite the changes, the Mavericks have had to fight all season long to remain in the hunt for the playoffs. They got a lucky break when the Los Angeles Lakers lost their two superstars to injury for a lengthy period in the regular season. This meant the Lakers fell into the play-in tournament and the Mavericks were able to qualify directly into the playoffs.

With all this in mind, let’s take a look at the three goals for the Dallas Mavericks for this playoff run.