MAVS NEWS:

[Mavs2021]

The western conference and especially the SW division was a just as strong (statistically even stronger) as it is today. When the Mavs won in 2011 the entire division had a winning record. Same in 14/15 (most wins all time by a division, 4x 50+ win teams).

I think the main difference between the teams of the 00s and 10s and todays Mavs is durability. Doncic is playing 65-70 games per season. Dirk's lowest prime number is 73 (in 10/11). Kyrie is playing even less games.
OKC had the best record last season because they suffered no relevant injuries. Healthy Wolves and Nuggets would have finished in front of them. Healthy post deadline Mavs as well.

And I don't think that the Mavs should change their approach. If the situation allows it they should load manage even more. 55 or 50 games in the regular season are nice to have but it is more important to have the best possible version of the team (Luka+Kyrie) in the playoffs.

It has always been 5-8 teams under 0.500 in the West, since 2003. Last year was the first time it was only four, this season the projection is three.So this is unprecedented. Agreed with the rest.