DALLAS -- The search for a stopgap center has become an annual tradition for the Dallas Mavericks since Tyson Chandler played a key role in the 2010-11 title run during his first temporary stay, only to leave when Mark Cuban made an unpopular, post-lockout business decision.
It's not like the Mavs weren't looking for a long-term relationship. They danced with Dwight Howard in 2013 but couldn't close the deal in free agency. They celebrated DeAndre Jordan's commitment to them a couple of summers later but were infamously ditched at the altar, as fans will rudely remind Jordan when the LA Clippers visit Thursday night.