Stephen A. Smith doubled down on his belief that the Dallas Mavericks have what it takes to win the NBA championship — as long as Anthony Davis is healthy enough to lead them through the postseason.
On ESPN’s First Take, Smith pointed to Dallas as the Western Conference’s most dangerous dark-horse challenger, even with the Oklahoma City Thunder entering as defending champions.
“Together, both healthy, with their A game. I would pick the Dallas Mavericks to win the NBA championship,” Smith said. “If Anthony Davis brings his A game, the Dallas Mavericks will win the NBA championship. That’s a big if, it’s fluid. It can change, but it’s legit, and everybody knows it.”
Anthony Davis at the Center of the Dallas Mavericks’ Push
The Mavericks’ season has been defined by how much Davis can give them on a nightly basis. When available, he remains an elite defender and rebounder, capable of anchoring the paint and swinging playoff matchups. The challenge, as Smith noted, is sustaining that level over a full run after years of battling injuries.
Dallas has relied heavily on Davis to stabilize the team following last summer’s roster overhaul, and his performance continues to set the tone.
Veteran Core with a Rising Star
Beyond Davis, Dallas has leaned on the experience of Kyrie Irving and Klay Thompson, both of whom bring championship pedigrees. Irving has worked his way back from injury during the season, while Thompson’s spacing has given the Mavericks another weapon in critical stretches.
The team also has a long-term piece in Cooper Flagg, the No. 1 overall pick in 2025. Though still early in his development, Flagg has already flashed the defensive instincts and energy that made him one of the most anticipated prospects in years. His ability to contribute in spots adds another dimension to the Mavericks’ depth.
Competing in the Western Conference
The Mavericks face a crowded field in the Western Conference. Oklahoma City remains the favorite with Shai Gilgeous-Alexander at MVP form, Denver continues to push behind Nikola Jokić, and Memphis and San Antonio have surged behind Ja Morant and Victor Wembanyama, respectively.
But with Davis as the centerpiece, and Irving and Thompson supplying playoff-tested experience, Smith believes Dallas has the kind of star power that could break through if health holds up.
“The one thing that we ain’t going to say about A.D. is the brother can’t play,” Smith said. “We know better. That’s the list.”
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