Just a few days ago, the Dallas Mavericks were on the top ranking in the very tight Western Conference. The Mavs, led by Luka Doncic, were the 6th seed in the west and were thought to be championship contenders after landing Kyrie Irving. But, after their loss against the Charlotte Hornets, they are now out of playoff contention. How did that happen? Can they return to the top 10 seeds and may be able to participate even in the Play-In tournament?
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The Mavericks are now the 11th seed in the West. Now, in the most crucial part of the Mavs’ season, Luka Doncic will be suspended for 1 game following his 16th Technical Foul
The Dallas Mavericks have now lost four straight games after losing a close one against the Hornets on Monday. At 36-39, they’re already the 11th seed in the west, making them out of playoff contention and even Play-In tournament chances.
Though they currently look like a team that seems lost out there, they still have the chance to make a comeback and possibly return to playoff contention. Even being at the 11th spot, they’re only just 3.5 games behind the Phoenix Suns who are currently in the top 4. However, the Mavs will have to endure their next game without Luka Doncic. After receiving his 16th technical foul, Luka Doncic will automatically be suspended for 1 game according to NBA rules.
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Dallas Mavericks’ final games of the 2022-2023 season: Schedules and matchups
The Mavericks now only have 7 games left before the season ends and they’re still fighting for a playoff spot. Basically, it will be very tough for them because Luka Doncic will not be playing against the Pacers after his 1-game suspension. Below are all of the upcoming game schedules for Dallas:
- March 27, 2023 – Versus the Indiana Pacers
- March 29, 2023 – Versus the Philadelphia 76ers
- April 1, 2023 – Versus the Miami Heat
- April 2, 2023 – Versus the Atlanta Hawks
- April 5, 2023 – At the Sacramento Kings
- April 7, 2023 – At the Chicago Bulls
- April 9, 2023 – At the San Antonio Spurs
The highlight of their 7-game stretch would be the games against the Sixers, Heat, and Kings. These three teams are playoff contenders with the Heat and Kings both in the 3rd seed of their conferences. However, Dallas has won their previous games against these three squads. Hopefully, they will overcome this losing streak and return to their strong form.
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The Wild Wild West: How Luka Doncic and the Mavericks can return to playoff contention
The 2022-2023 Western Conference is as wild as it gets. As mentioned, the 11th-seeded Mavericks are just 3.5 games behind the 4th-seeded Suns. Looking at the standings every day, you’re going to see an unsteady ranking and a constant shift. The once 6th-seed Mavs are down to 11. On the other hand, Oklahoma City Thunder and Los Angeles Lakers are pushing for a Play-In spot.
It’s going to be a crucial season-ended for these 9 teams with each of them fighting to survive the west. Meanwhile, Dallas is really in a slump. They’ve already lost four straight games. And, even though they have the 7th easiest schedule, they must be able to win all the games to secure even just a Play-In spot.
Can the Dallas Mavericks make a comeback for one last playoff push? Feel free to share your thoughts in the comments below. For more content, stay with us, here at Spiel Times.
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