Dallas Mavericks produced the surprise of Saturday night’s NBA action, as they recorded a 97-81 victory over Oklahoma City Thunder at the American Airlines Center.

The Mavericks have endured a tough start to the 2017-18 campaign as they currently sit rock bottom of the Western Conference and Southwest Division standings after winning just five of their opening 20 regular season matches.

However, three of those victories have come in their last four matches, including Saturday’s win over the Thunder, and shooting guard Matthews sees no reason why his team cannot continue with their improvement and challenge for a place in the playoffs.

“We’ve just been playing how we’re supposed to play,” Matthews was quoted as saying on ESPN.

“If we play that way, we’ve got enough talent and enough skill to win games more often than not.”

Mavericks coach Rick Carlisle certainly believes it is crucial his team build on their recent momentum, with matches to come over the next few days against the San Antonio Spurs and the Brooklyn Nets.

“It is a little bit of momentum,” Carlisle said. “And it is precious.”

Dallas failed to reach the playoffs last season and they have not made it beyond the first round of the postseason since they last won the Western Conference in 2011. Carlisle’s men could still mount a challenge for Conference glory this term and they are available at 251.00 to secure that title.