Brandon Bass got his deal, and the Mavericks will probably get their big man at least partially because of Bass' departure.
Bass agreed to sign a free-agent contract with the Orlando Magic that will start at more than $4 million next season, his agent said. Bass had two productive years for the Mavericks that he parlayed into a four-year deal with the Magic. The Mavericks stepped aside in negotiations for Bass, allowing him to sign with the Magic. His presence with the Magic virtually guarantees that Marcin Gortat will be a Maverick . He signed an offer sheet starting at $5.854 million with the Mavericks , and Orlando has until next week to match the offer. But with the Magic already eclipsing the luxury tax, it means the $33 million deal would likely cost Orlando double that over the length of the contract if it matched.
The Mavericks are no longer worried about that possibility.
Tony Dutt, Bass' agent, said the Magic not only provided a financial incentive for the 6-8 Bass, but also have an open spot in their lineup at power forward that Bass will get the chance to win in training camp.
The Mavericks , meanwhile, will turn their attention to James Singleton, who they have interest in re-signing. It also seems likely with the signing of Gortat that Ryan Hollins may find a home elsewhere.
