The Dallas Mavericks are reportedly planning to release veteran guard J.J. Barea in the coming days. The move comes just weeks after Barea inked a new one-year, 2.6 million deal with the organization.
According to league sources, the Mavs intended to start the new NBA season without the 36-year-old fan favorite all along but wanted to reward him for his contribution to the franchise in past years.
Despite being released by Dallas, Barea wishes to prolong his NBA career for at least one more season. After that, he reportedly wants to take up a coaching role in the league.
Barea had a solid 2019-20 campaign despite battling injuries, but the Dallas Mavericks decided to move on from him in order to give more playing time to backups Jalen Brunson and Trey Burke. They also needed a roster spot after signing Courtney Lee to a deal.
J.J. Barea spent 11 seasons with the Mavericks on two separate stints and played an important role in the team’s road NBA title run in 2010-11. He is also credited for his contributions off the court, mentoring young Mavs players like superstar guard Luka Doncic.
Over the course of his NBA career, Barea averaged 8.9 points, 2.1 rebounds, and 3.9 assists per game. He is also the recipient of the J. Walter Kennedy Citizenship Award, given to an NBA player or coach for their “outstanding service and dedication to the community.”
