SAN ANTONIO – The Mavericks’ magic number for clinching a playoff berth was at seven going into Tuesday’s game against the Spurs.
That means any combination of seven Dallas victories or seven losses by Sacramento and New Orleans would ensure a playoff spot for the Mavericks.
Before action began Tuesday, the Mavericks were 10 ½ games ahead of both the Kings and Pelicans, who are tied for ninth place in the Western Conference. They also owned the tiebreaker against both teams, although that still could change against Sacramento, since the Mavericks lead that season series 2-1 with a game left next week in Sacramento.