The Loss Boys?

The Loss Boys?
A liberal dose

DAVID THOMAS REPORTS, 10D

The favorite

Dallas Mavericks Despite flopping in the first round of the playoffs, the Mavs are a model franchise that boasts league MVP Dirk Nowitzki, a talented young core and a demanding, astute coach in Avery Johnson. They usually go about their business the right way.

The contender

Dallas Cowboys The Cowboys claim they have loads of talent on both sides of the ball, but continue to stumble down the stretch. With new coach Wade Phillips in charge, maybe the 'Boys can change their ways. Can young quarterback Tony Romo handle the pressure?

The underdog

Dallas Stars The Stars are a solid regular-season team that simply doesn't have enough scoring to thrive in the playoffs. Other than Mike Modano, their biggest offensive showing was team president Jim Lites' letter to season ticket holders that blasted the media for being too critical.

The afterthought

Texas Rangers When a team is known more for bad trades and poor signings than anything on the field, you know it's in trouble. The Rangers aren't good, and even with Mark Teixeira, it's tough to speculate when they might turn things around.