The Dallas Mavericks are once again going big in free agency hoping to not come up short this time around. The championship window is closing quickly on Mark Cuban and if he fails to sign at least one star this offseason, it could be rebuilding time sooner rather than later in Dallas. That is why the Mavericks are moving quickly on meetings for this offseason's biggest stars, but competition is high to acquire them.
According to ESPN's Marc Stein, the Mavericks had dinner with both DeAndre Jordan and Wesley Matthews at the start of free agency. Both Dirk Nowitzki and Chandler Parsons were present during the meetings as the Mavericks plan to offer a max deal to Jordan and another contract to Matthews if things work out.
Jordan is being considered as the best center on the market this offseason as the Los Angeles Lakers and New York Knicks are also targeting him. According to NBA sources, Jordan wants a four-year contract and a big role on whatever team he signs with. The Los Angeles Times reported the center had friction with Clippers' point guard Chris Paul as he was tired of playing third wheel to the him and Blake Griffin. That has caused Jordan to get active in free agency. The Mavericks would make Jordan the anchor of the defense with a starring role.
The interest in Matthews comes after the departure of Monta Ellis. According to ESPN's Tim MacMahon, the Mavericks have no plans to re-sign Ellis. After Danny Green re-signed with the San Antonio Spurs, Matthews is a priority in Dallas. They need the scoring threat to help take pressure of players like Parsons and Nowitzki.
If the Mavericks are able to land both Matthews and Jordan, their last biggest question will be at the point guard position. After the failed Rajon Rondo experiment, the point guard is not expected to re-sign in Dallas which leaves a hole at the position. The Mavericks will be hard-pressed to sign a marquee player if they ink both Matthews and Jordan. Parsons has been recruiting Beverley to the Mavericks, but he will be looking for a pay raise. Jeremy Lin, Aaron Brooks or Reggie Jackson might be the best options.
