The Dallas Mavericks are in the thick of the Western Conference playoff race. They sit fifth heading into Friday’s action. The Mavs appear to have a postseason spot locked up.
They lost an important piece this week. Starting center Dwight Powell ruptured his Achilles against the LA Clippers on Jan.21. Dallas lost a leader and a crucial piece of their culture with the season-ending injury.
The front office has been scrambling to fill in for Powell. The Mavericks are light on big man options. Kristaps Porzingis started at the five in Thursday’s game.