Unlike many other teams gunning for the playoffs out West, the Mavericks can afford a year of growing pains before rising as a contender in the next decade. Kristaps Porzingis won’t hit free agency until 2023 at the earliest. Luka Doncic is entering year two of his rookie deal after winning 33 games as a rookie. Reaching 40 wins would mark true growth in 2019-20, especially in the gauntlet that is the Western Conference.
The Mavericks may not subscribe to such modest expectations. Owner Mark Cuban has turned in 15 playoff appearances in 19 years as owner, and Rick Carlisle’s 751 wins ranks third among active coaches.