Now, Dallas can still improve its roster. They can continue to solidify themselves as a true contender in the Western Conference, which is currently being dominated by the Oklahom

A couple of Western Conference hopefuls right on top of each other in the standings meet up on Tuesday, Jan. 7 when the Dallas Mavericks host the Los Angeles Lakers at the American Airlines Center in Dallas.

Down eight at the end of the third quarter, the Mavericks now have the lead. They have jumped out to a 117-111 lead against the Trail Blazers. The Mavericks have enjoyed the tag-team combination of PJ Washington and Dereck Lively II.