NBA Power Rankings: Mavs Moving Up Behind Luka Doncic's Dominance

Behind the supreme play of Luka Doncic over the last several games, the Mavericks have improved their spot in this week's NBA Power Rankings.

Through the first 26 games of the season, the Dallas Mavericks own a 16-10 record, sitting as the No. 5 seed in the Western Conference. 

Despite Kyrie Irving missing the last six games and both Josh Green and Maxi Kleber missing significant time, the Mavs have held their own and not just stayed above water, but made up some ground as well while being led by the heroics and MVP-level of play from Luka Doncic. 

Alongside Doncic's dominant play, rookie Dereck Lively II has continued to flourish, and the consistent contributions of Tim Hardaway Jr., Derrick Jones Jr., and the revival of Dante Exum has helped keep Dallas afloat through the many injuries across the roster.

In this week's edition of CBS Sports' NBA power rankings, the Mavs jumped one spot from No. 12 last week to No. 11. 

Isaiah J. Downing-USA TODAY Sports

CBS Sports' analysis: The Mavs beat the Lakers and Blazers this week, with losses to the Wolves and Nuggets as they continue to navigate the absence of Kyrie Irving (and others). The defense was spotty, allowing at least 119 points in each game, while Luka Doncic controlled the offense, as expected.

Dallas earned a quality clutch time victory over the Los Angeles Lakers at home while taking care of business on the road against the Portland Trail Blazers, but it struggled against two of the top teams in the West, the Minnesota Timberwolves and the Denver Nuggets.

Luka Doncic's Shorthanded Mavs Outmatched in Road Loss vs. Nuggets

Heading into the holidays, the Mavs' schedule doesn't get any easier, starting with hosting the streaking Los Angeles Clippers on Wednesday. The Clippers have won eight straight games. However, the Mavs finish out this week with more favorable matchups against their in-state rivals, the Houston Rockets and San Antonio Spurs.

If Dallas can take care of business against the Rockets and Spurs while also ending the Clippers' winning streak, look for the Mavs to take a sizable jump in next week's rankings.

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