The Dallas Mavericks are optimistic they might get one of their top targets this offseason. The team has been burned in the past as players like Deron Williams and Chris Bosh hinted at a deal and then turned away at the last minute. Owner Mark Cuban is hoping that does not happen a third time as the Mavericks lead the race to acquire DeAndre Jordan.
According to ESPN's Tim MacMahon, Jordan left the meeting with the Mavericks very impressed. Sources are reporting the conversations lasted four hours and included Dirk Nowitzki and Chandler Parsons as recruiting tools for the center. The Mavericks reportedly set the bar very high for other teams as Jordan continues to meet with other franchises before making a final decision.
The Los Angeles Lakers did not have as much success in their meeting with Jordan. Brad Turner of the Los Angeles Times is reporting the Lakers were "somewhat underwhelming" in their presentation for Jordan as they too look for a starting center. The Lakers have already lost the race for LaMarcus Aldridge and now they could be out Jordan as well who is getting attention from the New York Knicks along with the Clippers.
The Mavericks need Jordan. They simply cannot afford to miss out this time around. According to ESPN's Chris Broussard, Tyson Chandler signed a deal with the Phoenix Suns on Wednesday which means the Mavericks are losing their Plan B option. If Jordan were to fleece them and head elsewhere, the Mavericks would be left scrambling to try and quickly acquire someone like Robin Lopez or even Greg Monroe if he is not already signed.
The Mavericks are prepared to offer Jordan a max contract. According to ESPN Dallas, Jordan wants a four-year contract and a big role on the team. Nowitzki and Parsons are the two biggest names currently on the roster which means there is plenty of room for Jordan to take on a starring role in Dallas, plus the Mavericks have a roster ready to compete now and not later.
MacMahon is reporting that Wesley Matthews is still a top target for Dallas, but they have a lot of competition. The Sacramento Kings made several trades on Wednesday night that frees up the space for them to get big names like Matthews on the roster. Giving Jordan a max deal means Dallas cannot overpay Matthews as well considering they also need a point guard. Patrick Beverley might be too expensive which means players like Jeremy Lin, Aaron Brooks and Reggie Jackson might be the best options to replace Rajon Rondo.
