Dirk: Mavericks 'should have a great defensive lineup - once I'm out'

Dirk Nowitzki has high hopes for the Dallas Mavericks upon his retirement.

After finishing 16th in defensive efficiency last season, the Mavericks big man joked that Dallas could see huge improvements in that category when he decides to call it quits.

"We should be able to have a great defensive lineup - once I'm out," Nowitzki told reporters at the Mavericks' Media Day.

At 38 years old, Nowitzki certainly isn't as nimble as he once was, but he's also not as bad as he's suggesting. In fact, the Mavericks were slightly better on defense with the 7-foot German on the court last season, giving up 0.4 points per 100 possessions fewer than when he was on the bench.

While defense may not be Nowitzki's forte, Dallas will certainly be leaning on him for offense once again. In 75 games last year, Nowitzki averaged 18.3 points on 44.8 percent shooting, serving as the focal point of the offense for much of the campaign.

Dallas' season will tip off on Oct. 26 against the Indiana Pacers.