The Mavericks tip-off in Phoenix a couple of days ago to start their 2022-2023 season. After week one of NBA basketball, the Mavericks currently stand with a 1-2 record. There are three main takeaways from the Maverick’s season so far.

1. Luka’s Strong Start

Over the previous season, the biggest problems surrounding the young superstar were Luka Doncic’s fatigue and being out of shape at the start of the season. This usually has had a significant impact on Luka’s health and limited playing ability. It had also considerably affected the young star’s chances MVP campaign last season, with his inconsistent performance eliminating him from any chance at an MVP.

But this year is completely different for the Maverick’s superstar, who has been keeping in shape for the whole offseason. In fact, for some, Luka is in much better condition than he was closing the season last year. This is likely the case, as Luka is currently averaging an impressive 34.7 PTS, 9 REB, and 7.7 AST this season. Luka is still the favorite for winning MVP this year with +450 odds by Vegas Insider.

2. Christian Wood’s Performance

This offseason, the Mavericks would trade Boban and a couple of draft picks for 27-year-old Christian Wood to their roster. The 6′ 9 power forward/center was added to the roster in the hope that Luka to have an excellent co-star to play with and hopefully fill in a sort of big-man role. This bet has paid off for the Mavericks as Christian Wood has fully embraced his role for the Mavs. He is currently averaging 24.3 PTS and 8.7 REB for the three games he has played in. He is also the first player in Mavericks history, being the first player to score 25 points in his first two games as a Maverick.

He has the second-best odds to win the sixth man of the year with +400 odds. Although Christian Wood has been playing lights out, there has been concern over his free throw ability. During his first game with the Mavericks, Wood shot 3/10 from the line, finishing with a 30% free throw accuracy. He would improve the next game with an 85% free throw percentage against Memphis Grizzles.

3. The New Guys

Apart from getting Christian Wood, the Mavericks also added some new pieces to their roster. One of those players is Javale McGee, who the Mavericks signed from the Phoenix Suns. He currently leads the team in blocks with 1.3 BLK and averages four boards per game. Javale also gave the Mavericks a much-needed 7-foot big man to the roster, which they lost when trading Porzingis.

Another player the Mavericks acquired is Jaden Hardy, who they drafted in the second round, previously apart of the G-League Ignite team. Jaden, who was a top prospect in high school, was drafted with the hopes of filling in the role that Jalen Brunson had before he left. He has had very minimal play experience, only totaling 6 minutes in all. But Jaden will surely receive more playing time and carve his role to the Mavericks as time passes.

Stay tuned to The Roundup for more coverage on the Dallas Mavericks!