The Dallas Mavericks have been sputtering as of late, although their current position is already something that has made detractors look foolish.

The season started with a controversial scene that was tied up with DeAndre Jordan who had earlier committed and then backed out. Such left the Mavs scampering for available players but the time wasted was costly.

The Mavs had to make do with rag-tag players, names who were either in their prime or more of role players who had underachieved. Despite all that, the Mavs have found themselves in the magic 8, but their stay there is seriously threatened if the Utah Jazz are able to string up a couple of victories.

For this season, the Mavs were simply applying a wait-and-see approach and making the playoffs. If they hold on, they can achieve that feat, although it will require their winning effort to secure it.

Looking beyond this season, though, the Mavs don't exactly have a bright future. Long-time star Dirk Nowitzki could be playing the final season of his career, while Chandler Parsons is expected to opt out of his contract after this season.

Parsons is expected to opt out as he looks for a better payday and there is no telling if Mark Cuban would be fine with raising the salary of the 27-year-old star.

Parsons is leaving his options open, although it would be a waste for Cuban if he allows the shooting forward to walk. He may not be superstar caliber, but he is someone who can bring something to the Mavs or any other team.

Aside from the two, the Mavs are likely left with players who will walk. They are the second oldest team and a lot of their players are on limited time deals. Wes Matthews is someone who could stay but given his issue with injuries, he may need more help to lift the Mavs back to sanity.

The Mavs are likely to embark on a rebuilding tenure once again in the offseason but before that, there is the current season that needs to be addressed.

That begins by winning games from here on, although the road ahead promises to be a tough one as they face streaking ball clubs starting with the Cleveland Cavaliers next time out.