In 2024, the Dallas Mavericks found themselves within arm's reach of winning their first championship since 2011. Despite undergoing some massive changes, one longtime analyst still has faith that they can be a threat in the Western Conference.
Midway through last season, the Mavs went through a stunning change when they traded Luka Doncic to the LA Lakers for Anthony Davis. Though their runway to contend became shorter, Dallas still has high-level talent on the roster capable of contending. AD, Kyrie Irving, and Klay Thompson all know what it takes to win at the highest level. The key for them will be staying on the floor consistently to put the Mavericks in a position to make a deep run.
Fresh off their title victory over the Indiana Pacers, the OKC Thunder are now the clear alpha in the West. During Tuesday's installment of First Take, Stephen A. Smith and his panel discussed possible teams that could dethrone Shai Gilgeous-Alexander and company. The host wasted little time before making his case for the Mavericks once they're healthy again.
"A healthy Dallas Mavericks would be my answer to this question," Stephen A. said of teams who could take down the Thunder. "I watched the Dallas Mavericks take them out in six games last year...A healthy Kyrie Irving with the ball in his hands, I'd like to see that."
.@stephenasmith believes a healthy Mavs team would be the biggest threat to the Thunder repeating as NBA champions 👀
— First Take (@FirstTake) June 24, 2025
"A healthy Kyrie Irving with a ball in his hands? I'd like to see that." pic.twitter.com/TK04lUCNqU
With their combination of size and length, the Mavericks are one of the few teams equipped to handle a team like the Thunder. They've become an even more interesting threat in the West now that they've selected Cooper Flagg in the draft as well. If the No. 1 pick can be impactful on day one, Dallas certainly belongs in the conversation of dark horse contenders in the West.
Taking down this Thunder group will be no easy feat. That said, with their newfound defensive identity and personnel, Dallas could give the reigning champs a run for their money in 2026.