Despite the Dallas Mavericks planning to sign center Bernard James, the team reportedly is still eying free agent Jermaine O'Neal and potential free agent Amar'e Stoudemire, who hasn't ruled out requesting a buyout from the New York Knicks. Dallas' need for frontcourt help became more dire Monday night when All-Star center Tyson Chandler injured his ankle.
The Mavericks plan to sign James to a 10-day contract this week to bolster their depth in the paint, provided James, whom Dallas released in October, is available from the Chinese Basketball Association.
"We're hoping to, but it's not guaranteed," coach Rick Carlisle said of signing James in time to play against the Jazz, via ESPN. "Look, anybody over 6-5 right now is a sight for sore eyes. If we can get it done with 'Sarge,' he can step in and give us some minutes."
While Dallas needs help following Chandler's injury, they hope James is just a temporary solution. The Mavericks are hopeful they can land either O'Neal or Stoudemire, if he becomes available, according to multiple reports.
The Mavericks are still considered the frontrunners to sign O'Neal, but ESPN reported last week the 36-year-old is still trying to get himself into basketball shape and might not be ready to sign with a team until after the All-Star break.
As for Stoudemire, both ESPN and Yahoo Sports reported the Mavericks are hoping to land him if he obtains a buyout from New York. When asked about the possibility of seeking a buyout, Stoudemire didn't rule it out.
"It's not an easy decision to make," Stoudemire said, via Yahoo Sports. "Over time, we will see how things pan out. You give yourself a break during the All-Star break. You think about it with your family. ... That will give me a good solid week on how to weigh out the rest of the season.
"All possibilities at this point are still open. The door is still open for that. But at the same time, I am with the Knicks now. I got to stay optimistic about things and what we are doing here. I can't really focus on the future because it's not here."
Stoudemire would have to complete a buyout and sign with Dallas - or another team - before March 1 in order to be playoff-eligible for them.
