The Mavericks were a disappointment for much of the season, hovering at or below the .500 mark.
MORE: Full playoff predictions: How many do Warriors drop?
They got things going down the stretch, finishing 7-3 over the final 10 games to claim a playoff spot and avoid the Warriors and Spurs in the first round.
Thunder vs. Mavericks matchup to watch
Mavericks point guards vs. Russell Westbrook
Deron Williams and J.J. Barea make a great 1-2 punch at point guard for the Mavericks. The problem is, both have been banged up the last month or so. And they have to deal with human triple-double machine Russell Westbrook, which is tough enough even at 100 percent.
Thunder vs. Mavericks regular season series
Thunder 4-0: Thunder 117-114, Thunder 108-89, Thunder 109-106, Thunder 116-103
Thunder vs. Mavericks schedule
Game 1: April 16 — Mavericks at Thunder, 9:30 P.M. EST (ESPN)Game 2: April 18 — Mavericks at Thunder, 8:00 P.M. EST (TNT)Game 3: April 21 — Thunder at Mavericks, 7:00 P.M. EST (TNT)Game 4: April 23 — Thunder at Mavericks, 8:00 P.M. EST (ESPN)Game 5: April 25 — Mavericks at Thunder (if necessary)Game 6: April 28 — Thunder at Mavericks (if necessary)Game 7: April 30 — Mavericks at Thunder (TNT, if necessary)
Thunder vs. Mavericks prediction
The only way the Mavs have a chance is if the Thunder forget how to win in the playoffs. Look for Kevin Durant to have his way against the Mavs defense during this series.
Thunder in five.
