NBA Playoffs: Mavs Down, Not Out

The Dallas Mavericks have been spiraling downward toward yet another major meltdown. Two years ago they lost an NBA Finals they should have swept, and last year they were bounced from the playoffs in the first round by an 8th seed. Most recently they have been unable to close games and more importantly, defeat any team with a winning record. Dirk Nowitzki even went down last week with a high ankle sprain along with a sprained knee. Jerry Stackhouse has also been benched due to injury, as he is struggling with a strained groin which is always a tricky injury.  All signs are steering the Mavs straight out of the playoffs this year, but don't count them out just yet. They are not the only one who will decide their fate. Currently at the 7th seed in the West, the Mavs are in control, but closely chasing them are the Warriors and Nuggets and these are precisely the reasons not to worry if you are the Dallas Mavericks. Yes, the Mavericks recently lost to each team, and has been embarrassed ... (link)