Dallas Mavericks: Ranking all 5 starters for the 2021-22 season

The Dallas Mavericks are getting closer to breaking through. The franchise has now made the playoffs in two consecutive seasons, eliminated by the LA Clippers in the first round each time (though they took LA to seven games this year).

But close is not good enough anymore. Rick Carlisle, who has been the coach of the Mavericks for as long as many can remember, is now with the Indiana Pacers. In his place enters franchise legend, Jason Kidd.

Everything for the Dallas Mavericks runs through Luka Doncic. How does the rest of his starting supporting cast rank amongst themselves?

Kidd’s history as a coach is checkered. He’s only had a losing record once during his time in charge, but he always seems to wear out his welcome quickly. We’ll have to see if that’s the case in Dallas.

Regardless, the Mavericks should be able to trot out a playoff-caliber team in 2021-22. As has been the case for each of the last few seasons, the franchise has one of the best players in the world in Luka Doncic. For as long as he’s in Dallas, he’ll be topping the list of the team’s best starters.

Kristaps Porzingis will also be near the top of the list. There are persistent questions about whether or not his tandem with Doncic can work long-term. But Porzingis remains a gifted individual player who can be All-Star caliber when fully healthy.

The rest of the starting lineup could be flexible based on matchups on any given night. Dwight Powell could start at center if healthy. Tim Hardaway Jr. is good enough to start for any team in the league, but can also be a spark off the bench. Dorian Finney-Smith brings some much-needed respectability on defense.

Assuming those players comprise the starting lineup, here’s how they rank.