Now that the Mavs no longer have to act like the Washington Generals, and the worst they can do in the lottery is sixth, it’s time to consider their good fortune. Which is a funny epitaph for a 24-win season.
Straight up: If the Mavs should get really lucky with the ping pong balls and end up No. 1, it’s a no-brainer. Arizona’s center, DeAndre Ayton, is the best pro in the draft, if you believe NBA scouts and the FBI.
Just the same, the Mavs’ 12.1 percent chances of going first don’t exactly inspire confidence.