It’s been a rocky start for the Dallas Mavericks this season. Through five games, they have won three. Tonight, despite a raging fourth quarter, the Mavs didn’t have enough steam to fend off a 23-point lead Houston accumulated at the beginning. Led by another Kyrie Irving shooting clinique, a need has arisen within the Mavericks. They need to regain their disposition as a team that has just been to the NBA Finals.

They certainly look different from last season. In particular, the inclusion of Klay Thompson has provided substantial spacing, prompting a shift in their play style. Early indications show a slight decline in Luka Doncic’s usage rate—a positive for injury prevention. However, there’s another key area the young players on the team must address.

After the loss, Kyrie Irving spoke about avoiding ‘overthinking’. But there is also a need to forget their past season’s success and reset their mindsets rather than let the Finals appearance make them complacent. “Obviously we had the success last year, but it doesn’t mean s**t this year because we’ve accomplished nothing. You know, the champions are the Boston Celtics,” he told the media.

The underlying message in his words is likely a reminder not to be complacent. Having experienced both victory and loss in the NBA Finals, Kai knows the cost of overconfidence. Ironically, remembering the Celtics’ celebration could be the motivation that drives the Dallas Mavericks to unlock a new level in their game.

Yes, they have had a sluggish start. But considering they are still finding their footing, the scope to improve is limitless.

The Mavericks are doing some good things

Anytime a major contributor is added, it requires a good amount of adjustment to get used to their flow and motions. With Klay Thompson, he has become a priority within the Mavs. In the Finals, they lacked a threat like him who could knock down good looks consistently. With Luka Doncic missing the preseason, he has started this season feeding the ball to Thompson.

With the defensive attention the Slovenian attracts, it was meant to translate into good looks. So far, it has done just that. Of his 40 threes in the first four games, 34 of them were either open or wide open for Klay Thompson. Likewise, for a shooter of his caliber, those shots have a great likelihood of falling.

Additionally, the Mavericks are also finding success with their two lean and athletic centers. Their tandem has risen as one of the best combinations of centers for any team. In the season so far, their rim-crashing ability has dramatically benefitted the Mavericks. Their 12.8 offensive rebounds per game ranks the 9th best in the league.

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These additional possessions generate 18.6 second-chance points per game for Dallas, the fifth-best mark in the league this season. Luka Doncic, still managing the fatigue from rehab, has yet to reach his peak form. Once he does, the potential for the Dallas Mavericks is immense. Do you think this team can make it to the NBA Finals once again? Share your thoughts in the comments below.