When the Dallas Mavericks raised their 2010-2011 championship banner on Christmas Day against the Miami Heat, it was one of their worst losses of the season.
When they receive their title rings Wednesday night against the Minnesota Timberwolves, they'll hope to avoid the championship hangover, even without star Dirk Nowitzki, resting for the third consecutive game.
The addition of Lamar Odom and the improvement of Shawn Marion has made Dallas better equipped to survive their All-NBA PF's absence, as the Mavericks have already defeated the Hornets and the Suns earlier in the week.
Minnesota, meanwhile, has been one of the most exciting young teams in the NBA this season with the addition of Spanish rookie Ricky Rubio. The Timberwolves have already beaten Dallas 99-82 on Jan. 1, although they will be without former Maverick JJ Barea, who has missed the last two weeks with a sprained ankle.
Dallas will need Odom and Marion's defense to keep Kevin Love off the offensive glass, as the 6'9 250 forward is averaging 25 points and 14 rebounds a game this season.
The Mavericks will be without Vince Carter, who is still out with a foot injury.
The 7:30 PM game will be televised regionally on Fox Sports Southwest.
For the latest news and notes on the defending NBA champions, check out Mavs Moneyball while Canis Hoopus has all the pre-game coverage from Minnesota.