I really don't get it

If the NBA doesn't want the Mavericks to succeed in the playoffs, why even allow them to participate? Why let them in the playoffs in the first place? It would make it so much easier because they wouldn't have to go through the dog and pony show of screwing them over year after year.

Just make the Mavs a team in the regular season that cannot quality for the playoffs. That way, the bias is out in the open.