Could Dirk Nowitzki's return for 20th season hurt Mavs in any way? His $25 million price tag might. He's given Mark Cuban discount before; he'd likely repeat favor, especially if Cuban proves he can add legit free-agent talent. Either way, always nice to have Dirk around as long as possible. ... Tale of two Houston stadiums: Hofheinz Pavilion, one-time frat house of Phi Slama Jama, has seen better days, and not just because Hakeem and Clyde no longer party there. Several generations never showered in locker rooms because of plumbing woes.