The Dallas Mavericks expect to be major players in the free-agency sweepstakes for both Dwight Howard and Chris Paul.
Owner Mark Cuban makes splashes and he needs to atone for a down season. The 2012-13 campaign marked the first time the Mavs missed the postseason in 12 seasons.
With some creative financial work, Cuban and basketball czar Donnie Nelson, can get both blue-chip free agents. Dirk Nowitzki already acknowledged he'd rework his contract if it would help.
So all reports indicate that Cuban is committed to moving money to make signing Howard and Paul a reality.
If that is the case, Dallas most likely will trade this pick.
If not, it's a mystery where the Mavs might go. Their last lottery pick was Etan Thomas with the 12th selection in the 2000 NBA Draft.
Assuming the Mavericks keep the pick, point guard is a huge need. Mike James started by the end of the season as Darren Collison was a pretty massive disappointment.
Michael-Carter Williams of Syracuse is intriguing with his 6-foot-6 size. He's not a great jump-shooter. Dallas has never shied away from foreigners so Dennis Schroeder of Germany might fit.
The Mavericks also have needs to fill at big spots with Chris Kaman, Elton Brand and Brandan Wright all testing free-agent waters. Indiana's Cody Zeller could drop, but Steven Adams of Pitt is more realistic.
Players under contract: F: Dirk Nowitzki; F: Shawn Marion (early termination option); G: O.J. Mayo (player option); F: Vince Carter; F: Jae Crowder; C: Bernard James; G: Josh Akognon
Free agents: C: Chris Kaman; G: Anthony Morrow; G: Darren Collison (restricted); G: Rodrigue Beaubois (restricted); F: Elton Brand; C: Brandan Wright; G: Mike James
Recent Draft History: 2012: Tyler Zeller (17), Darius Johnson-Odom (55)
2011: Jordan Hamilton (26)
2010: Solomon Alabi (50)
2009: Byron Mullens (24), Ahmad Nivins (56)
2008: Shan Foster (51)
Draft picks: 1st round (13th overall), 2nd round (44th overall)
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