I know this is the Thunder Board, but for those Mavs fans out there, I hope you've been watching them of late.
They are arguably the hottest team in the league right now having won 10 straight and have been playing really good basketball. Dirk has been Dirk, but the big difference this season has to be Tyson Chandler. He brings energy and a tough physical presence to make up for what Dirk can't do on the defensive end. He has also been a great team mate. You always see him encouraging his teammates on the floor when he is on the bench. He and Haywood have a goal to combine for 20/20 each night, which I think is great.
Carlisle's decision to start DeShawn Stevenson has also worked out well I think. No. 1 it moves Caron Butler to a more natural SF position. No. 2 he is a pretty solid defender that you can stick on a teams best player, and for the most part he'll do a respectable job or at least get under the guys skin.
Jet Terry and Shawn Marion off the bench have been pretty solid this year. Jet has to be the early favorite for 6th man of the year and has been instant offense off the bench this year. Marion is still a good defender and will get you some hustle points every night.
I am a bit worried that Kidd's legs are starting to go, but I think Carlisle is making a real effort to limit his minutes when he can. JJ has been a serviceable backup and still has the ability to drive the ball. He's struggled a bit offensively of late.
All this and the Mavs have been doing it without the exciting Roddy B. Can't wait for him to get back.