Account

The Actual News

Just the Facts, from multiple news sources.

ESPN's Stephen A. Smith Makes Surprising NBA Finals Prediction

ESPN's Stephen A. Smith Makes Surprising NBA Finals Prediction

Summary

ESPN's Stephen A. Smith predicted that the Dallas Mavericks could reach the NBA Finals if Kyrie Irving and Anthony Davis stay healthy. The Mavericks recently made significant team changes, including trading key players and acquiring new talent like Cooper Flagg. The team starts its new season against the San Antonio Spurs with odds of +3300 to win the championship.

Key Facts

  • Stephen A. Smith believes the Dallas Mavericks can reach the NBA Finals if their key players remain healthy.
  • The Mavericks traded Luka Doncic and others to the Los Angeles Lakers for players including Anthony Davis.
  • Kyrie Irving and Anthony Davis are seen as critical players for the Mavericks' success this season.
  • The Mavericks picked Cooper Flagg with the No. 1 overall pick in the 2025 NBA Draft.
  • Kyrie Irving is currently injured and expected to miss much of the 2025-26 season due to an ACL tear.
  • The team retained important players like Daniel Gafford and P.J. Washington, focusing on consistency.
  • The Mavericks have championship odds of +3300, which is lower than teams like the Oklahoma City Thunder and Cleveland Cavaliers.
  • The NBA season begins soon, with the Mavericks playing against the San Antonio Spurs.

Source Information