15) Dallas Mavericks (1-6)
Last month: 13
My not-so-subtle jab on the previous page aside, this is probably the squad I was most conflicted about in these rankings.
The reality is that the Dallas Mavericks have lost six of their first seven games, which is bad. Having said that, they also handed the Memphis Grizzlies their sole loss of the season, nearly beat them a second time the next night and played the Philadelphia 76ers tough on Saturday.
It’s a testament to Rick Carlisle’s coaching. Also — Dennis Smith Jr (13.2 points and 6.6 assists per game) is the real deal. Still, 1-6 is 1-6.