NBA: 5 dark horse teams that could surprise you next season

1. Dallas Mavericks

Last year was a wake-up call for the Mavs. They failed to make it to the playoffs for the first time in over a decade and that too by just 4 games. This year, they won’t be making the same mistakes.

Dirk Nowitzki is into this 16th year and he still remains one of the best offensive Power Forwards in the league. Dirk will lead the offence and will take care of the rebounding part too. He’s ably supported by Samuel Dalembert to patrol the paint and also to assist Dirk in rebounding. The Mavs have signed Monta Ellis and Jose Calderon. Ellis is a prolific scorer and Calderon is a capable point guard. Veteran Vince Carter can take care of the offense as and when needed. Shawn Marion is still around and he can handle the defensive side of the court with Dirk and Dalembert. On the whole, the Mavs are looking really solid this season and will definitely make it to the playoffs.

Honorary Mention: Brooklyn Nets

The Nets have regrouped better than last season and they have an all All-Star opening line-up with Deron Williams, Joe Johnson, Paul Pierce, Kevin Garnett and Brook Lopez. They performed well last season and they will perform well this season. Since the Nets just went from a good team to a better team, they weren’t present in my list but however, their off-season movements deserved them an honorary mention.