The Mavericks are waiting for James Singleton, and the 6-8 forward's agent says there is a good chance their patience will be rewarded. But that doesn't mean a decision is coming this week, or even next week. Singleton's situation is that the Mavericks have given him a qualifying offer worth $175,000 more than the league minimum for a fourth-year player ($884,000). That means he can make a little more money coming back to the Mavericks and facing a crowded roster at his spot or perhaps take less money with a team that could assure more playing time. That also would require Singleton to learn a new coach and system.
"It's been a slow and unusual market, especially for restricted free agents," agent Buddy Baker said. "In James' case, you have to consider the economy, the term of the deal, the team and what role he'll play.
"But James is certainly very fond of Dallas. The Mavericks have one of the deepest rosters in the NBA. But James is familiar with their system and is very close with Coach Carlisle. All things being equal, he's very, very fond of the Mavericks ."
That sounds like Singleton still could end up being the 17th player in camp Sept. 28 with a guaranteed contract. Only 15 are permitted on the final roster, and owner Mark Cuban has said carrying 14 or 13 is a possibility.
This is not a unique situation for a Baker client. Last year, Houston's Carl Landry was in a situation similar to Singleton's and waited until Sept. 24 to sign an offer sheet with Charlotte. The Rockets matched the next day.
Singleton's numbers aren't eye-popping (5.1 points, 4 rebounds per game), but his production per minute played is. He rates very well in points and rebounds per minute.
The Mavericks , however, have forwards Dirk Nowitzki, Shawn Marion, Josh Howard, Tim Thomas, Drew Gooden, Kris Humphries, Nathan Jawai and Shawne Williams on the roster.
Briefly: J.J. Barea is abiding by the Mavericks' wishes that he not play internationally for Puerto Rico this summer after undergoing shoulder surgery in June. But he has told the national team he plans to participate in the world championship next summer, and he said he has the Mavericks' blessing as long as he's healthy. ... Single-game tickets go on sale for regular-season games at 10 a.m. Oct. 2 at the American Airlines Center box office only.
