This week’s SB Nation Mavericks React poll had two questions, and I posted them early enough in the week that they might be interesting to look back on by next Friday. First, I asked about the Mavericks’
record. Dallas has a six-game home stand to kick off the year, and as of this writing, they’ve only played the Spurs. The result speaks to a fanbase optimistic on the season.
Given that many people may have voted AFTER the Spurs game, it seems we collectively believe this team is a lot better than how they played. I do hope they beat the crap out of the Wizards.
The second question was about who should start at point, Cooper Flagg or D’Angelo Russell.
The fanbase doesn’t want to see Flagg play point as much as Jason Kidd does. Whether it’s a Kidd disdain for Russell, a desire to help Flagg grow, or a mix of both, the majority of fans do not want to see Flagg at point guard. I tend to agree. He’s a play finisher right now. Maybe he can be something else one day, but if Dallas is trying to be a contender, this role doesn’t make sense for Flagg.
Then we pivot to the National survey results. The first question was about winning the East.
The Knicks and Cavs win out this poll overwhelmingly. With the Boston Celtics breaking apart, it makes sense, but neither of these teams strikes me as Championship ready.
The second question was about the Western Conference race.
The Thunder and Nuggets win out this poll, which tracks with my thinking. Shout out to the fans who have that faith in the Dallas Mavericks. The Warriors are a sneaky sleeper if you ask me.
The third question was a NBA Finals prediction.
Too much orange and blue between these two teams for my liking. Thunder would wallop the Knicks. Four game sweep kind of butt kicking.
The last question is about winning the Finals. These results are hilarious.
Only 7% of fans think ANY East team will win the Finals? It’s rough out there folks.
