Dallas Mavericks legend Dirk Nowitzki had some strong words about the team’s disappointing 2-7 start to the season.

The Lakers come east for the start of a five-game road trip when L.A. plays at Atlanta. The Lakers have won five straight games and sit at 7-2. The Hawks have alternated wins and losses over the last four games and are 4-5.

The Minnesota Timberwolves and Oklahoma City Thunder look like they are going to have the most competitive race to win one of the NBA Cup groups.