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The Dallas Mavericks’ postseason trip ended in Game 6 against the LA Clippers. Although Dallas put up a tough fight to one of the top contenders to win the NBA championship this year, it wasn’t enough.
However, things are looking bright for this young team with Luka Doncic and Kristaps Porzingis at the helm. For one thing, Doncic is emerging as a potential franchise player for the team. But it could cost the team a veteran at JJ Barea.
In his fourteen seasons as an NBA player, Barea has played all but three seasons for the North Texas side. Additionally, Barea openly admitted wanting to leave the team after not having a genuine shot in the 2020 NBA playoffs.
According to El Nuevo Día, the 2010-11 NBA champion is unhappy with the treatment given to him by head coach Rick Carlisle.
“I still want to play basketball, I feel like I can play. What I don’t know is where. If I want to stay in Dallas, I know they want me to be on the coaching staff. If I want to play basketball, I have to go somewhere else.
“For now I want to play in the NBA. I haven’t given much thought to the other options. I’m used to life in the NBA, but Spain has always been an option for me and it was my plan B if the NBA didn’t come out. Barea said.
Barea was a vital part of the 2010-11 Mavericks championship roster, but it seems like it’s time to move on for the Puerto Rican.
Should the Dallas Mavericks be worried?
Barea was out for most of the season due to an Achilles tendon injury. But having a veteran presence on the court is pretty important for a young team like the Mavs.
In fact, a veteran presence can pay off in the dressing room for stars like Doncic and Porzingis. Additionally, a vet can act as an on-court coach for the team during difficult situations.
The franchise will definitely miss Barea’s expertise and leadership. The 36-year-old’s contract will expire at the end of this season, but it is not known as of now when the next one will begin. That means that an agreement can still be reached between the two parties. Otherwise, NBA fans could see Barea heading to Spain for the rest of his career.
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