The Mavs have lost their swagger, which is disheartening considering the decline has coincided with the return of future Hall-of-Famer Dirk Nowitzki. Instances such as these tend to sway my memory to a fonder time.

Having gone to the game last night, there were some observations I made that show both where this team is and where it’s going. Let’s get into it.

'Twas the week before Mavs-mas, when all through the gym Not a Mavs Man was stirring, not even a limb...

Dirk is finally ready to kick off his 21st season with HIS Dallas Mavericks and he’ll do it away from the AAC against the Suns. But what does Dirk’s return mean for his team that has been red hot without him?

Doncics' incredible rookie season can be directly attributed to his previous professional experience. He continues an obscure tradition of talented overseas players that began their professional careers while teenagers. 

This Thanksgiving, let’s look at the Mavs with a little perspective and be thankful for the team we have and the basketball we get to watch.

The best time to make a mark on any club is at its genesis. Especially when multiple members of the club are not available. The absence of Dirk and Harrison have given DeAndre Jordan and Dorian Finney-Smith the chance to emerge and evolve into impact players we desperately need.

Last night the Mavs fell to the Suns 121-100 on opening night, which was not the plan. Let’s look at all the things need to go according to the plan for the Mavs to sniff the playoffs this year.

The Mavericks potential is extremely exciting, so before you grab the remote and pop the top on that brew-ski chew on these pregame nuggets to prepare for the season opener.

The Mavs will play the 76ers twice in China, but they will be shorthanded by injuries that could drag into the regular season.