Mavericks Look Like Real Title Contenders

After watching the Mavericks overcome their usual struggles in Los Angeles, Dallas looks like a complete team and a title contender.

The Mavericks played harder than the Lakers, and were more consistent in their offense. Dirk Nowitzki is a serious MVP candidate, and Jason Kidd appears to still have much to give given his age.

The additions of Shawn Marion and Drew Gooden are paying dividends for Mavericks owner Mark Cuban.

Marion is providing Dallas with another superstar scoring threat, and a near unstoppable talent on the fast break. Gooden is a solid player to get rebounds, and play centers and power forwards on defense.

Their bench is very good, with scoring threat Jason Terry, and backup point guard JJ Barea giving Dallas excellent guard depth. If the Mavericks stay healthy this year, I would not be surprised to see them contend not only for the western conference title, but the NBA Championship.

Dallas fans know Mark Cuban will do whatever it takes to win, and he is not afraid to make a blockbuster trade, or spend lots of money.