The Dallas Morning News staff predicts the outcome of the second round of the Western Conference playoff series. Between Dallas Mavericks and Oklahoma City Thunder…
Tim Cowlishaw, Columnist
The Mavericks should be able to hand the Thunder their first loss in the 2024 postseason, but can they do it four times? This is the stage that Shiite Gilgeous-Alexander has been waiting for. OKC has depth and defense on the perimeter and Chet Holmgren's presence in the lane. Luka and Kyrie in one night he achieves 60 points, but it is not enough. Thunder at 6 o'clock.
Mike Curtis, Mavs beat writer
The Mavericks will face a fully healthy and well-rested Thunder team in what is being billed as a battle of MVP candidates. Dallas will definitely have their hands full with Shai Gilgeous-Alexander. Oklahoma City took advantage of the Pelicans' sparse depth, but it remains to be seen whether the rest of the supporting cast can contain the potent offensive duo of Luka Doncic and Kyrie Irving. And if Dallas' defense holds up, they have a good chance of making it to the Western Conference Finals. Mavericks in 7th place.
Kevin Sherrington, Columnist
Sure, the playoffs are different than the regular season, but in the only game against the Thunder in which Luka Doncic and Kyrie both played, the Mavs won by 35 points. The loss of Maxi Kleber will hurt the Mavs going forward against either team. West powerhouses Denver or Minnesota, but for now, the lob threat is back full-time. Mavs teaches his kids a few things. Mavs six times.
Brad Townsend, Mavs beat writer
OKC has more 1-8 talent than Dallas. The Thunder also have a formidable home court, as evidenced by their 35-8 record at Paycom Center. But the Mavericks have two of the three best players in this series and have a definite advantage in the midfield. This reminds me of the 2011 Western Conference Finals. That's when a feisty Dallas defeated a Thunder team that was also young and unprepared for the big stage. Mavericks in 6th place.
Click here for more Mavericks coverage from The Dallas Morning News.
