2011 NBA Playoffs: Are the Dallas Mavs the Best Team Remaining in the Playoffs?

I think everyone can agree that the Dallas Mavericks are not only playing the best basketball we have seen them play, they're also the team to beat in the Finals this year—regardless of who wins the East.

I quickly dismissed them because of their past past playoff failures, however, after easily beating Los Angeles and Oklahoma City, Mark Cuban might finally get that title he wants.

Dirk Nowitzki is shooting a lights-out 52 percent and has a scoring average of 28.4 PPG, which many expected.

What we didn't expect is that Dallas would allow almost four points less a game during the playoffs—against the Blazers, Lakers and Thunder no less. Dallas is also a good three points ahead of Miami for the best +/- in the playoffs.

No one on the team has really stepped up (statistically) compared to their performance during the regular season except maybe Jason Terry. Dallas is playing the best basketball they could possibly play. Beating the defending champions was a huge confidence boon. The ability to do it in just four games gave Dallas enough confidence and momentum to crush OKC.

Next up: their biggest challenge and nemesis, Miami. (Okay, don't count the Bulls out yet.)

It looks like we are going to see Dallas and Miami in the finals again. The Big Three are amazing, but Dallas is playing better basketball. This will be a great series regardless of who wins it. I think Dallas has the edge though.

You could argue Miami is more dominate, and that there is no real defense for both James and Wade, which I agree with.

But how does Miami stop Dirk? With weak inside defense, Shawn Marion and Tyson Chandler are going to have some fun inside while a big tries to help Bosh out with Dirk. Get ready for a fun series! This may finally be Dallas's year!