And we’re off. The NBA season is in full swing, and when people aren’t talking about what’s going to happen to Kobe Bryant, they’re talking about who’s going to win the championship.

The answer might be wherever Bryant lands, assuming he doesn’t stay a member of the Los Angeles Lakers for the rest of the season. But he wouldn’t be the only player changing teams. The trading deadline is a key part of building a championship club, and if you want to pick a winner now, you have to factor in front office acumen.

With that in mind, drum roll please… the Dallas Mavericks. The Spurs and Suns each have a very good shot, but both had questionable offseasons (think Kurt Thomas and Luis Scola), while the Mavs are fresh off adding Juwan Howard. He and Eddie Jones should help keep the starting five fresh for the playoffs. Just watch out for Golden State this time.