The Dallas Mavericks reportedly are pursuing free agent veterans Ray Allen and Jameer Nelson. After failing to land Carmelo Anthony and LeBron James in free agency, the Mavericks appear to want to use their salary cap space to upgrade their backcourt.
Mike Fisher of DallasBasketball.com reported the Mavericks are eying Allen, the veteran 3-point specialist.
"Sources tell DallasBasketball.com that (the Mavs') 'mystery target' is Ray Allen," Fisher tweeted Tuesday.
Dallas' chances of signing Allen, though, appear slim. Allen isn't expected to retire this season, but he most likely will either re-sign with the Miami Heat or join his friend, superstar LeBron James, in Cleveland.
The Mavericks also reportedly are looking at Nelson.
"...Nelson, who has been with (the Orlando Magic) his whole career, would seem to make a lot of sense as a relatively cheap addition to the backcourt," Eddie Sefko of the Dallas Morning News wrote Tuesday night. "A source said the Mavericks will meet with Nelson on Thursday."
Sefko also reported the Mavericks still are interested in signing veteran Mo Williams, who can play at either the 1- or 2-guard position.
Dallas has $2.7 million in salary cap space to use.
In regard to the Mavericks' frontcourt, the team announced Wednesday veteran Rashard Lewis would not be joining the team after all. Dallas voided Lewis's contract after a physical revealed the 34-year-old would need surgery on his right knee.
"It came to our attention during Rashard Lewis' physical that he is in need of a medical procedure on his right knee," the Mavericks said in a statement, via ESPN. "We wish him all the best for a speedy recovery and continued success in his remarkable career."
Lewis and the Mavericks agreed last week to a one-year deal worth the veteran's minimum.
