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NBA 2016-17 forecast: Southwest Division

By Brian Boake

Nov 9, 2014; Toronto, Ontario, CAN; Toronto Raptors logo on the scoreboard to start the game against the Philadelphia 76ers at the Air Canada Centre. Mandatory Credit: John E. Sokolowski-USA TODAY Sports
Nov 9, 2014; Toronto, Ontario, CAN; Toronto Raptors logo on the scoreboard to start the game against the Philadelphia 76ers at the Air Canada Centre. Mandatory Credit: John E. Sokolowski-USA TODAY Sports /
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DALLAS MAVERICKS

Last season: 42 – 40

This season: 45 – 37

Dirk Nowitzki is back, after being a free agent. He wasn’t going anywhere, of course; owner Mark Cuban loves the big sweet-shooting German. He’ll have another chance to add to his remarkable career stats with a solid group of veterans as teammates.

I can’t guess what Deron Williams can provide anymore, but let’s assume he’s revitalized. Andrew Bogut will provide excellent rim protection. Harrison Barnes has never shown me much, but he’ll have a golden chance to break out. Prove me wrong; I won’t mind.

Dec 22, 2015; Toronto, Ontario, CAN; Dallas Mavericks forward Dirk Nowitzki (41) tries to shoot over Toronto Raptors guard DeMar DeRozan (10) and center Bismack Biyombo (8) in the first half at Air Canada Centre. Mandatory Credit: Dan Hamilton-USA TODAY Sports
Dec 22, 2015; Toronto, Ontario, CAN; Dallas Mavericks forward Dirk Nowitzki (41) tries to shoot over Toronto Raptors guard DeMar DeRozan (10) and center Bismack Biyombo (8) in the first half at Air Canada Centre. Mandatory Credit: Dan Hamilton-USA TODAY Sports /

Their backup guards are J.J. Barea and Devin Harris, who can still contribute despite advancing years. Dwight Powell is Canada’s representative on Dallas’ bench. I predict he will see a significant uptick in his playing time.

I like teams with depth, which these guys surely have. Their backbone players haven’t been together, but it won’t take long for them to jell. They should find themselves in the playoffs, where they will prove a tough out.

Next: Timmy's jumped off, but ride continues

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