45 Kings

"Still ballin' in the mix..."

Slim Thug - Still Tippin'

The Mavericks defeated the hapless Nets 96-87...last night for their 45th win on the year and 13th in a row.

Major Figures

There is a saying that states: slow and steady wins the race, and if that is the case then the Dallas Mavericks are on pace to go deep into the upcoming playoffs. Since the trade for Caron Butler, Brendan Haywood, and DeShawn Stevenson...this squad has quietly gotten better, stronger, and faster.

Its never my practice to award a team or predict their future, however the Mavs are a legit threat to win it all. This group is better than the 2006 team that lost in the Finals to Miami...the reason is they are an experienced group of veterans featuring Jason Kidd, and Dirk Nowitzki, as they boast a solid bench with depth at numerous positions.

With injuries to Jason Terry, and Jose Juan Barea...others have stepped up like rookie Rodrigue Beaubois who is an all around talent...playing well at both ends of the floor.

Much has been made about Caron Butler and his preference to chew on McDonald's straws during games...however the bigger story is how the Mavs continue to win, putting the league's best teams on high alert.

There is a new kid on the block and if they are not given respect...they will gladly take it...and the win!

Photo: Glenn James/NBAE via Getty Images