Western Conference Call

Sports are riddled with curses but there are few associated with the NBA although the 1986 NBA Draft had more than its fair share of tragedy and busts. However, maybe the Sports Illustrated cover jinx has brought its hex to the NBA.

Those who follow the NBA as does the SI article saw the inherent risks in the trade and anticipated possible negatives. But rational thought never stopped a good sports curse debate and the Mavs are just 4-4 since the trade.

Interestingly, the re-acquisition of Kidd who was drafted by the Mavs in 1994 also brings together three members (Kidd, Juwan Howard and Eddie Jones) all selected in the top ten of that draft class.

The other debate surrounding the Kidd trade was that it was prompted by the recent slew of Western Conference power moves. Head Coach Avery Johnson, however, downplayed that notion.

The Mavs though are rebuilding on the run. The team added a big that they lost in DeSagana Diop in the Kidd trade with signing Jamaal Magloire. In addition, the Mavs picked up Tyronn Lue to back up Kidd at the point guard.

Keep up with the rest of the Mavs’ neighbors in the Conference Call West on NBA.com.