Early Season Trends: Mavs Struggle While Spurs and Lakers Shine
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Early in the NBA season, the Dallas Mavericks are facing significant struggles, currently holding a 3-9 record and a minus-6.5 point differential. League insiders, including scouts and executives, express a near-universal belief that the Mavericks cannot continue at this poor level, although they are not projecting a playoff run.
The firing of general manager Nico Harrison has led to discussions about the future of the franchise, particularly regarding stars Anthony Davis and Kyrie Irving. Some executives suggest that moving on from both players could be the best strategy for Dallas, especially to maximize their 2026 first-round pick in a loaded draft class.
The Mavericks are also dealing with roster imbalances, as D'Angelo Russell, their only proven point guard, has been marginalized in favor of Brandon Williams, who is on a partially guaranteed minimum deal.
A Western Conference scout emphasized the need for a feasible point guard to avoid further struggles. Meanwhile, the Los Angeles Lakers and San Antonio Spurs have emerged as teams to watch, with both franchises enjoying strong starts to the season.
The Lakers, bolstered by the imminent return of LeBron James, who has started practicing with their G League team, are expected to improve further. Their current performance is noted to be better than expected, although concerns about their defensive and net ratings remain.
The Spurs, led by rookie sensation Victor Wembanyama, have garnered attention for their early success, though some scouts express skepticism about their ability to maintain this momentum throughout the season.
An Eastern Conference scout stated they would bet on the Spurs staying competitive due to Wemby's talent, while another West scout warned that his durability over a full season could be a concern. The competition in the Western Conference is fierce, with teams like Oklahoma City, Houston, and Denver also in the mix, complicating the playoff picture for the Lakers and Spurs.
As the early season unfolds, the Mavericks' struggles juxtaposed with the successes of the Lakers and Spurs indicate a potential shift in the league's competitive landscape, raising questions about future trades and organizational direction for Dallas.