2017 Mavs Training Camp Profile: Dirk Nowitzki

When the German One inked his deal before the 2016 season, many fans rejoiced. our GOAT, our Hero, our icon, had returned for yet another season. Now, unfortunately, not everyone understands that father time is undefeated. So those who were expecting ’06 MVP Dirk, well, that just isn’t the case anymore. 

2016-17 Season in Review

Headed into the season last year the big fella was dealing with some Achilles trouble. Which, knowing what we know about Dirk in the past, was almost certainly going to lead to a slow start. Remember back in 2013? I know, I know you would rather forget that year but I’m trying to make a point.  That year, Dirk had a minor knee surgery in the offseason that turned into him missing the first 30 games. And when he got back? Well, let’s just say it took him awhile to get back to being the Dirk we know and love. Also remember the 2012 season, when Dirk admittedly spent his offseason partying and ringing in his long-coveted championship. He got off to a brutally slow start but eventually rounded into his usual all-star self. 

My point is, Dirk is not usually explosive out of the gate especially when he is dealing with any sort of injury. And that was the case again in 2016. While any player getting hurt is a negative, especially one of Dirks Stature, in this case, it might have been a blessing in disguise. When Dirk missed a few games out of the gate, we were all treated to the emergence of Harrison Barnes. By the time Dirk returned to full strength, he wasn’t asked to be the top option anymore. 

Some would consider that a bad thing, but it was time. The front office has been searching for somebody to help carry or completely take the weight off his shoulders, And they finally found it. 

It was abundantly clear last season that Dirk’s days as a 20 point a game scorer were over. But it was also evident that he still has a little something left in that tank. He went through several hot shootings stretches later in the year, forcing us to wonder whether he might just be the first to defeat father time. 

Unfortunately, we know the answer to that question. But that doesn’t mean grandpa Dirk can’t still treat us to moments of magic.

 

 

 

 2017-2018 Season Outlook

Going forward into next season, look for Dirk to have a stronger showing. Yes, he is another year older, but he is entering this year with a clean bill of health. As we noted earlier, an injury-free offseason is what can usually springboard Dirk into a successful year.  

That begs the question then, what would qualify as a successful year for a 39 year old entering his 20th season? That’s a good question. Last year Dirk put up pretty good numbers for an old man, and don’t expect much variation there. Where you can expect to see an improvement is him bringing that trademark efficiency back up to it’s normal level. 

Obviously, that stems from being healthy. But also look for Dirk to continue taking a back seat to some of the younger guys on the team. We talked about Harrison Barnes already, and how he eased Dirk’s burden, but now with the addition of Nerlens Noel and Dennis Smith he has an elite roll man and an explosive guard to work off of. I know you remember Jason Terry, Steve Nash, and Monta Ellis and the mutually beneficial pick and pop relationships they formed with Dirk. The Mavericks are hoping and expecting Dennis to be next in line. And if that is the case, then Dirk should have plenty a good look in his last few season(s). 

Yes…this could be it. I know that is a scary thought for Mavs fans, but that day is coming. However, I think this season Dirk will put those terrifying thoughts on hold. While he doesn’t exactly offer you much other than offense at his advanced age, He can still shoot the lights out of the gym….

And you know what they say….That jumper is the last thing to leave you. 

So let’s enjoy it while we still got it.