When Dirk Nowitzki is hot he is unstoppable. Jason Kidd, Caron Butler and others provide a way above average supporting cast. They look a championship caliber team during the regular season but for what ever reason they seem incapable of stringing four games together during the playoffs. And with everyone yet another year older they don't have many chances with Dirk still in his prime. So to answer the question, yes Dallas always has a chance because they have an entire team of streaky shooters who are capable of absolutely going off rendering them capable of beating anyone. Now they have two of the best defensive centers in the game in Chandler and Haywood to help against the Lakers and Magic/Celtic frontcourt in the East. So they have got allot of things going for them. But what I believe are this teams weaknesses is not having the second star to truly be Dirks compliment and Jason Kidd. Yes one of the greatest point guards in NBA history is now a serious defensive liability for the Mavericks. The trend of point guards is quick. Rose, Wall, Paul, Evans, Rondo, Nelson are all extremely explosive. Jason Kidd has no chance against any of these guys. I want to see Rodrigue Beaubois and Jose Juan Barea take full reigns of the point guard job and have Jason Kidd serve as a mentor.

Taking a look at what the Mavericks have now makes them a solid number 2 in the West, with challenges from Denver and Portland. With an entire year together now they have a solid team and one of the best benches in the NBA. Caron Butler is one of the toughest players in the league who is fully capable of putting up 20 if he needs to. Haywood and Tyson Chandler will be a great tag team. Terry will give them instant offence off the bench and Shawn Marion always finds a way to produce. And they always have Dirk to lead them. Its clear however in order to be considered favorites they need another piece. And here you have to look at teams that are falling apart and looking to rebuild. If New Orleans gets off to a rough start look for Chris Paul to call for a trade. And the Mavs have some decent pieces to offer up. Unlikely but still worth mentioning. Stephen Jackson of the Bobcats is likely to call for a trade or even Gilbert Arenas who if he proves that he has still got some game but can't play with John Wall will be up on the trading block. Expect Mark Cuban to make a major move..