If we ever get around to building a Mount Rushmore of Dallas athletes, Dirk Nowitzki and Adrian Beltre would be on the short list among candidates without stars on their ears. Not only do Dirk and Beltre rank among the best ever at their positions, they're selfless, tough, slightly goofy and, thus, lovable. If you go for that sort of thing.
Both have also graciously accommodated their clubs by taking pay cuts or deferring salary and would no doubt do so again.
And, unfortunately, both play for teams that aren't exactly on the up-and-up, prospects-wise.
Here's the difference: While Dirk suffers in silence, Beltre is making a little noise.