Description: Dirk Nowitzki has offered to take a significant pay cut in order to give the Mavericks more financial flexibility this offseason. SOURCE: Tim MacMahon, ESPN Dallas
Insight: If Dirk takes a pay cut, it will free up salary space that the Mavericks can use to sign top-tier free agents like Dwight Howard and Chris Paul. Nowitzki averaged 17.3 ppg in 53 games in 2012-13.
Description: Impending free agent O.J. Mayo is hoping to be back in Dallas next season. SOURCE: Tim MacMahon, ESPN Dallas.
Insight: Mayo signed a one-year contract with the Mavericks last offseason and for the most part he played well during the 2012-13 campaign. Certainly his numbers dipped a bit upon the return of superstar Dirk Nowitzki but Mayo's 40.7 percent three-point percentage was still a career-high and among the best in the NBA this season. If the Mavs return all their starters and maybe add a free agent or two in the offseason, this could be a top-four team in the Western Conference in 2013-14.
Description: Dallas Mavericks point guard Darren Collison had his highest-scoring game since Dec. 27 Wednesday against the Hornets in the season finale. Collison scored 25 points on 10-of-15 shooting.
Insight: Collison played 81 games and 29 mpg this season, but he was inconsistent and only averaged 12 ppg and 5.1 apg. Dallas coach Rick Carlisle never seemed fully committed to Collison as the starting point guard.
Description: Dallas forward Elton Brand (sore right calf) is expected to play Friday after missing four straight games.
Insight: Brand was in uniform Wednesday but didn't play. He'll cut into the minutes of Chris Kaman and Brandan Wright, who both have been playing well lately.
Description: According to ESPNDallas.com, Mavericks power forward Dirk Nowitzki says that he doesn't want to "mail it in" with four games remaining and the team eliminated from playoff contention.
Insight: "I want to play hard and hopefully win some," Nowitzki said. "I think a winning season would be nice for this tough, up-and-down season, so that’s what we’re going for." Fantasy owners can expect to have Dirk for the final four games.
Description: Dallas forward Elton Brand (sore right calf) is expected to be in uniform Wednesday versus the Suns, according to Earl K. Sneed of Mavs.com.
Insight: It's not clear if Brand, who has missed three straight games, will play. He has no fantasy value, but his presence would make Chris Kaman a less desirable fantasy option.
Description: Mavs coach Rick Carlisle expects forward Dirk Nowitzki (foot) to play Wednesday against the Suns, according to Earl K. Sneed of Mavs.com.
Insight: "We don't consider this a serious thing and we're hoping he's going to play tomorrow," coach Rick Carlisle said Tuesday. Nowitzki also has said that he intends to play, so we expect to see him on the court Wednesday.
Description: Mavericks forward Dirk Nowitzki (foot) is questionable for Wednesday's game against the Suns. SOURCE: Earl K. Sneed, Mavs.com
Insight: "We don't consider this a serious thing and we're hoping he's going to play tomorrow," coach Rick Carlisle said. Nowitzki also has said that he intends to play, so we expect to see him on the court Wednesday.
Description: Dallas forward Elton Brand is questionable for Wednesday's game against Phoenix with a sore right calf.
Insight: Brand, who was useful to fantasy owners earlier in the year when Dirk Nowitzki and Chris Kaman were both dealing with injuries, has missed three consecutive games and wasn't producing even before the latest injury.
Description: Mavericks forward Dirk Nowitzki will have his foot evaluated on Monday after hurting it in the second quarter in Sunday's game with Portland.
Insight: He's apparently dealing with bone spurs, but expects to play through it. Nowitzki hasn't cracked the 16-point mark over the past four games, so obviously it is effecting his play.
Description: Dallas forward Elton Brand is taking the night off Friday to rest his sore calf.
Insight: Brand was useful to fantasy owners earlier in the year when Dirk Nowitzki and Chris Kaman were both dealing with injuries. Now that they're healthy again, most fantasy owners have probably forgotten about Brand.
Description: Mavericks power forward Elton Brand is doubtful for Friday's game against Sacramento due to a sore right calf.
Insight: That will give more minutes to Chris Kaman and Brandan Wright. None of the three players are worth owning unless you are chasing blocks with Wright.
Description: Mavericks power forward Elton Brand will miss Thursday's game against the Nuggets due to a sore right calf.
Insight: That will give more minutes to Chris Kaman and Brandan Wright. None of the three players are worth owning unless you are chasing blocks with Wright.
Description: Mavericks guard O.J. Mayo (left shoulder) is probable for Tuesday's game against the LA Lakers.
Insight: Mayo's problem is not his shoulder but horrible shooting. He has made just 9-of-38 from the field over the last three games and totaled all of 22 points. When he's not scoring his fantasy value is low because he doesn't contribute a lot elsewhere.
Description: Mavs forward Brandan Wright recorded his first double-double of the season Saturday versus Chicago.
Insight: Wright registered 17 points and 13 boards in the victory. He's averaging 11.8 ppg over his last six contests, which is well above his season average (8.1 ppg).
Description: Mavericks forward Dirk Nowitzki knocked down the game-winning jumper Saturday against Chicago.
Insight: Dirk led all scorers with 35 points. Fifteen of the 35 came from beyond the arc (5-of-6 from that distance). Nowitzki was able to offset some of O.J. Mayo's struggles (1-of-13 from the field) on Saturday. If the Mavs get back to .500 (they're 36-37), Nowitzki and his teammates will shave off the beards they've been growing. The beards could come off as soon as Tuesday night against the Lakers.
Description: Mavericks guard O.J. Mayo, who underwent an MRI on his left shoulder, is questionable for Saturday's game against Chicago after barely making it throught the Friday practice.
Insight: Mayo has made just 8-of-25 from the field over the last two games and averaged 9.4 ppg over his last five despite playing 38 mpg. The shooting guard has been in decline for the last six weeks. He's averaging 12.1 ppg since Feb. 13 (18 ppg before).
Description: Mavericks guard O.J. Mayo will undergo an MRI on his left shoulder after struggling Thursday. SOURCE: Earl K. Sneed, Mavs.com
Insight: Mayo has made just 8-of-25 from the field over the last two games and averaged 9.4 ppg over his last five despite playing 38 mpg. The shooting guard has been in decline for the last six weeks. He's averaging 12.1 ppg since Feb. 13 (18 ppg before). We consider him questionable for Saturday's game against the Bulls.
Description: Dallas forward Shawn Marion (calf) returned after missing eight games and had 11 points, 13 rebounds and three assists in 31 minutes Friday night.
Insight: Marion's return limited Jae Crowder to eight minutes. Vince Carter still played 27 and scored 19 points.
Description: Dallas forward Shawn Marion (calf) has been upgraded to probable and is expected to return to action Friday against the Celtics, according to Earl K. Sneed of Mavs.com.
Insight: Marion has missed eight straight games with a strained left calf. His injury came at a bad time for fantasy owners since he was averaging 14.4 points, 7.6 rebounds, 2.0 assists, 1.2 steals and 0.9 blocks over his last 17 games. His return will bump Jae Crowder back to the bench.
Description: Dallas forward Shawn Marion (calf) is expected to return to action Friday against the Celtics, according to Earl K. Sneed of Mavs.com.
Insight: Marion has missed eight straight games with a strained left calf. His injury came at a bad time for fantasy owners since he was averaging 14.4 points, 7.6 rebounds, 2.0 assists, 1.2 steals and 0.9 blocks over his last 17 games. His return will bump Jae Crowder back to the bench.
Description: Dallas forward Shawn Marion (calf) is active Wednesday but he won't dress against the Nets, according to Earl K. Sneed of Mavs.com. He could return to action Friday.
Insight: Marion has missed seven straight games with a strained left calf. His injury came at a bad time for fantasy owners since he was averaging 14.4 points, 7.6 rebounds, 2.0 assists, 1.2 steals and 0.9 blocks over his last 17 games. Jae Crowder and Vince Carter have been grabbing the additional minutes.
Description: Mavericks G/F Vince Carter had 18 points, four rebounds, three assists, two steals and three treys Sunday against the Thunder.
Insight: Carter is averaging 15.3 ppg in March, his highest for any month this season, as he has made better than 52 percent from the field, 50 percent from 3-point range and 95 percent from the free-throw line this month.
Description: Dallas power forward Dirk Nowitzki failed to extend his double-double streak to four games Sunday against the Thunder but he did have 23 points and seven rebounds.
Insight: Nowitzki made 8-of-10 from the field, including 3-of-4 from the 3-point arc, and 4-of-4 from the foul line. He's averaging 18.3 points and 8.8 rebounds over his last 16 games.
Description: Dallas guard Roddy Beaubois fractured his finger Sunday and is out indefinitely. SOURCE: ESPNDallas.com
Insight: Beaubois has never been able to stay healthy for a full season but he was finally working his way into the rotation with 18 points and five assists in 22 minutes on Friday. The impending free agent may have played his last game in a Mavericks uniform.
Description: Dallas forward Shawn Marion (calf) had an MRI Friday that revealed a strain rather than a contusion, according to Earl K. Sneed of Mavs.com.
Insight: Marion has missed four games in a row and won't return until next week as a best-case scenario. His injury came at a bad time for fantasy owners since he was averaging 14.4 points, 7.6 rebounds, 2.0 assists, 1.2 steals and 0.9 blocks over his last 17 games. Jae Crowder and Vince Carter grab the additional minutes.
Description: Dallas forward Shawn Marion (calf) is out for a while and the "best-case scenario" is sometime next week, according to a Dallas Morning News report.
Insight: Marion has missed four games in a row. His injury came at a bad time for fantasy owners since he was averaging 14.4 points, 7.6 rebounds, 2.0 assists, 1.2 steals and 0.9 blocks over his last 17 games. Jae Crowder and Vince Carter grab the additional minutes.
Description: Dallas forward Shawn Marion (calf) won't play Thursday against the San Antonio Spurs, according to the Dallas Morning News. He's also doubtful for Friday's game against Cleveland.
Insight: Marion has missed three games in a row. His injury has come at a bad time for fantasy owners since he is averaging 14.4 points, 7.6 rebounds, 2.0 assists, 1.2 steals and 0.9 blocks over his last 17 games. He'll be re-evaluated Friday morning by team doctors.
Description: Dallas forward Shawn Marion (calf) will miss Tuesday's game against the Bucks. Jae Crowder will start in his place, according to Earl Sneed of Mavs.com.
Insight: Marion has missed two games in a row but his participation in Monday's practice made him a game-time call for Tuesday. Marion's injury has come at a bad time for fantasy owners since he is averaging 14.4 points, 7.6 rebounds, 2.0 assists, 1.2 steals and 0.9 blocks over his last 17 games.
Description: Dallas forward Shawn Marion (calf) is questionable for Tuesday's game against Milwaukee.
Insight: Marion has missed two games in a row, but was a participant in Monday's practice. He's averaging 11.7 ppg, 7.9 rpg, 2.4 apf, 1.0 spg. No longer the "Matrix," but Marion is playing solid basketball.
Description: Dallas forward Shawn Marion (calf) will miss Sunday's game and needs "a couple more days," according to Earl K. Sneed of Mavs.com.
Insight: Marion missed Friday's game as well and is questionable for Tuesday. Marion has been a strong fantasy contributor with 14.4 ppg, 7.6 rpg, 2.0 apg, 1.2 spg and 0.9 bpg in his last 17 contests.
Description: A bruised left calf will prevent Dallas forward Shawn Marion from competing in Friday night's game against Detroit.
Insight: Just when it looked like Marion was beginning to turn the corner (22 points Wednesday against Houston). Oh well. Vince Carter (13 ppg) and Jae Crowder (5.4 ppg) will both see time at the three on Friday, though Carter is the only one who will have any real fantasy relevance.
Description: Mavericks center Chris Kaman did not play Wednesday against the Rockets (coach's decision).
Insight: Mavericks coach Rick Carlisle has kept the center position ever-changing this season so it's difficult to trust Kaman, Brandan Wright or Elton Brand in any fantasy league.
Description: Mavericks point guard Darren Collison will come off the bench Wednesday against the Rockets, with Mike James moving into the starting lineup. SOURCE: Bryan Gutierrez, Mavs.com
Insight: Collison is only shooting 35.6 percent from the field over his last seven games and he allowed Jeremy Lin to score 21 points Sunday. It's unclear if this change will last more than one game.
Description: The Mavericks will start Brandan Wright at center for Dallas on Wednesday.
Insight: Mavs coach Rick Carlisle has shuffled his center position all season with Chris Kaman, Elton Brand and Wright all getting starts. You can't trust any of them in fantasy.
Description: Mavericks guard O.J. Mayo is probable for Wednesday's game against Houston with a swollen right hand injured in Sunday's game.
Insight: Mayo has played much better in Dallas than he did the previous two seasons for Memphis, averaging 17.4 ppg, 3.6 rpg, 4.3 apg. One disappointing note, however, is his three-point shooting percentage which has dropped in each succeeding month to just .293 in February.
Description: Mavericks center Chris Kaman was benched after 13 minutes Sunday night against Houston. He finished with six points and a minus-15 differential.
Insight: Kaman has started the last three games but only played 22.5 mpg in the previous two. It's difficult to trust any Dallas centers when coach Rick Carlisle insists on constantly changing his rotation.
Description: Mavericks guard O.J. Mayo made all three of his 3-point attempts, 3-of-4 from the foul line and 6-of-9 from the field overall for 18 points Sunday against Houston.
Insight: After making better than 50 percent from 3-point range in November Mayo has shot less than 40 percent from long distance in the last three months, including 34.8 percent in January and 29.3 percent in February.
Description: Mavericks G/F Vince Carter had 20 points, four rebounds, one steal and one block in 29 minutes Friday against the Nets.
Insight: Carter came into Friday's game having made 3-of-16 from the field over his last two games but he averaged 19.3 ppg in the four games before that.
Description: Mavericks point guard Darren Collison has gone ice cold from the field lately. He's shooting just 30.6 percent (15-of-49) over his last five games.
Insight: Collison has been a solid point guard option since he reacquired the starting job in late December but fantasy owners should take him out of the lineup until he rediscovers his shot.
Description: Mavericks center Chris Kaman moved back into the starting lineup Wednesday for the first time since mid-January but he only played 22 minutes and had six points and four rebounds.
Insight: Kaman lost his starting job on Jan. 25 and then missed 10 games after suffering a concussion during practice six days later. He played eight minutes in his return to the lineup and then was a DNP-CD last night. It's doubtful he'll get enough minutes to factor into fantasy leagues with Dirk Nowitzki, Shawn Marion and Elton Brand in the frontcourt.
Description: Mavericks power forward Elton Brand has scored 13 or more points in four straight games. He had 12 points, 14 boards and three blocks in 25 minutes Tuesday against Milwaukee.
Insight: Brand hasn't been starting but he usually ends up playing more minutes than any other center on the Mavericks. Chris Kaman, who just returned Sunday from a 10-game absence due to a concussion, was a DNP-CD on Tuesday.
Description: Dallas power forward Dirk Nowitzki was unstoppable again Tuesday, both on the floor and the glass. He scored 21 points on 50 percent shooting with 20 rebounds.
Insight: Nowitzki is finally starting to look like his old self with averages of 25.3 points and 13.3 rebounds over his last three games.
Description: Dallas power forward Dirk Nowitzki made 11-of-19 from the field for 30 points with 13 rebounds, three steals and four triples Sunday afternoon against the Lakers.
Insight: Nowitzki has produced 17.9 ppg and 6.7 rebounds over his last 21 games and 21.6 points and 8.8 rebounds over his last five. Sunday's game represented his first double-double of the year and season-highs in points and rebounds.
Description: Mavericks center Chris Kaman (concussion) will be active Sunday. SOURCE: ESPN Dallas.
Insight: Kaman has missed 10 straight games after suffering a concussion during practice at the end of January. He lost his starting job and saw just 11.5 minutes per game in the two games before the concussion so there's no guarantee he will play a big role going forward.
Description: Dallas Mavericks center Chris Kaman (concussion) practiced Saturday and could play Sunday against the Lakers. SOURCE: Earl K. Sneed, Mavs.com
Insight: Kaman suffered a concussion when he banged his head on the court during a practice on Jan. 28 and didn't practice again until Thursday. However, he appears to be close to making his return. What type of role he'll have when he gets back remains to be seen, as his minutes were shrinking prior to the injury.
Description: Pack your bags, Anthony Morrow. You're going to Big D. The Hawks traded Morrow to the Mavericks Thursday in exchange for guard Dahntay Jones.
Insight: You know it's a quiet trade deadline when this is the second-biggest deal we have to report. O.J. Mayo (17.8 ppg) has a stranglehold on the shooting guard position in Dallas so Morrow (5.2 ppg) will probably have to duke it out with Vince Carter (13.0 ppg) for minutes off the bench.
Description: Dallas guard O.J. Mayo (ankle) was able to practice Tuesday and should be fine to play Wednesday against the Magic. SOURCE: Earl K. Sneed, Mavs.com
Insight: Mayo rolled his ankle Monday but it was never considered a serious issue. Mayo's 17.9 ppg scoring average this season is his highest since 2008-09 when he was on Memphis.
Description: Dallas guard O.J. Mayo injured his ankle at practice on Monday. SOURCE: Bryan Gutierrez, Mavs.com
Insight: The injury doesn't appear to be that serious and the Mavericks are hopeful Mayo will be able to play Wednesday against the Magic. Mayo's 17.9 ppg scoring average this season is his highest since 2008-09 when he was on Memphis.
Description: Dallas Mavericks center Chris Kaman (concussion) recently had to deal with a bad headache after a workout and the team has told him to slow down his recovery effort.
Insight: Kaman suffered a concussion when he banged his head on the court during a practice on Jan. 28. He's still without a timetable for a return and doesn't have a definite role when he does make it back. Don't expect him to make any significant contributions to your fantasy team this season.
Description: ESPN's Chris Forsberg says the Celtics could look to sign free agent Delonte West now that guards Rajon Rondo and Leandro Barbosa are both out for the season.
Insight: Avery Bradley, Courtney Lee and Jason Terry are Boston's only healthy guards at the moment. This would be West's third stint with the Celtics after previously playing for them from 2004-07 and then again in 2010-11.
Description: Dallas Mavericks center Chris Kaman (concussion) has passed a cognitive test but he still hasn't been cleared to practice or play due to persistent headaches. SOURCE: ESPN.com
Insight: Kaman suffered a concussion when he banged his head on the court during a practice on Jan. 28. He's still without a timetable for a return and doesn't have a definite role when he does make it back.
Description: Mavericks forward Shawn Marion continued his midseason surge with 26 points and 11 rebounds on Saturday.
Insight: Maybe Marion thinks All-Star voting is still open. Prior to Saturday's game, Marion had averaged 14.6 points, 8.4 rebounds, 2.2 assists, 1.1 steals, 0.6 blocks and 1.2 threes over his last 13 contests.
Description: Dallas small forward Shawn Marion told ESPN Dallas that he'd refuse to show up if the Mavericks traded him to a bad team.
Insight: When asked if he'd consider retiring if the Mavericks dealt him to a lottery team, Marion said, "Maybe. Anything is possible." Most teams wouldn't have the cap room to acquire him anyway (he's making $9.3 million this season) so we highly doubt that Marion will encounter a situation like this.
Description: According to ESPN.com, Dallas guard Vince Carter was told by coach Rick Carlisle that he won't be dealt before February 21st's trade deadline.
Insight: Carter produced 17 points Wednesday against Portland after missing Monday's game with an illness. He's not a particularly strong rebounder anymore (3.9 rpg) but his shot is still there (38.6 percent success rate from long range).
Description: Mavericks shooting guard O.J. Mayo has scored at least 20 points in three of the last four games, including 28 on 11-of-14 shooting (3-4 3PT) Wednesday versus Portland.
Insight: Mayo averaged nearly 21 ppg with 2.7 3-pointers in November. While he hasn't quite reached those heights over the last two months, he's still putting up strong numbers.
Description: Dallas Mavericks center Chris Kaman was doing some shooting during Tuesday's practice, though he has still not cleared his concussion test that would allow him to fully practice with the team.
Insight: Kaman has been coming off the bench anyway. The Mavericks are going with center-by-committee - using Elton Brand, Bernard James and Brandan Wright. None of the three is fantasy worthy under those condidtions.
Description: Dallas Mavericks SG/SF Vince Carter did not play Monday or practice Tuesday and is questionable for Wednesday's game against Portland while dealing with an illness.
Insight: Carter isn't the superstar he once was, but he can still fill up the basket as his 17.7 ppg average over the last seven contests will attest. Without him in the lineup, Shawn Marion led the Mavs in scoring versus OKC on Monday with 23 points.
Description: Dallas Mavericks SG/SF Vince Carter did not play Monday and is questionable for Tuesday's game against Portland due to illness.
Insight: Carter isn't the superstar he once was, but he can still fill up the basket as his 17.7 ppg average over the last seven contests will attest. Without him in the lineup, Shawn Marion led the Mavs in scoring versus OKC on Monday with 23 points.
Description: Dallas power forward Dirk Nowitzki will be available for Monday's game against the Thunder. Nowitzki sat out Thursday and Friday because of a groin injury.
Insight: Nowitzki's return bumps Elton Brand (7.4 ppg, 6.4 rpg) out of the starting lineup. Dirk's 14.8 ppg scoring average this season is his lowest since 1998-99 when he was a rookie (8.2 ppg).
Description: Dallas Mavericks SG/SF Vince Carter is questionable for Monday's game against Oklahoma City after missing the morning shootaround due to illness.
Insight: Carter isn't the superstar he once was, but he can still fill up the basket as his 17.7 ppg average over the last seven contests will attest.
Description: On Sunday, Mavericks forward Dirk Nowitzki (strained right groin) said he expects to play Monday's game against Oklahoma City, according to a Dallas Morning News report.
Insight: Nowitzki was just starting to round into form when he injured himself and missed the Mavs' last two games. If he is in uniform, he's worth the gamble that he'll play well.
Description: Mavericks coach Rick Carlisle refused to give a definite answer as to whether power forward Dirk Nowitzki (strained right abductor muscle) would play Monday but said "things are headed in the right direction." SOURCE: Earl K. Sneed, Mavs.com
Insight: Nowitzki said he is hopeful he will be able to play Monday barring any setbacks at morning shootaround. He said as long as the strained right abductor is still "pulling" and not "grabbing," then he will be able to play through it.
Description: Dallas power forward Dirk Nowitzki, who sat out Thursday and Friday's games because of a strained abductor muscle, is expected to miss Monday's game against Oklahoma City as well.
Insight: Just when fantasy owners thought Dirk was beginning to turn a corner (season-high 26 points Tuesday at Portland), the fragile 34-year-old gets injured again. It's unclear how much time the veteran will miss. Elton Brand gets the start for Nowitzki, but Shawn Marion, O.J. Mayo and Vince Carter see most of the opportunities.
Description: Dallas power forward Dirk Nowitzki, who sat out Thursday's game against Golden State because of a strained abductor muscle, is expected to miss Friday's game against Phoenix as well.
Insight: Just when fantasy owners thought Dirk was beginning to turn a corner (season-high 26 points Tuesday at Portland), the fragile 34-year-old gets injured again. It's unclear how much time the veteran will miss. Elton Brand got the start for Nowitzki, but Shawn Marion, O.J. Mayo and Vince Carter were the guys who saw more opportunities.
Description: Dallas power forward Dirk Nowitzki is sitting out Thursday's game against Golden State because of a strained adductor.
Insight: Just when fantasy owners thought Dirk was beginning to turn a corner (season-high 26 points Tuesday at Portland), the fragile 34-year-old gets injured again. It's unclear how much time the veteran will miss. For now, Elton Brand (7.6 ppg, 6.4 rpg) will start in his place.
Description: Dallas Mavericks center Chris Kaman is out for Thursday's game against Golden State with a concussion. He hit his head in Monday's practice.
Insight: Kaman hasn't been starting anyway. The Mavericks are going with center-by-committee - using Elton Brand, Bernard James and Brandan Wright. None of the three is fantasy worthy under those condidtions.
Description: Mavericks center Chris Kaman will miss Tuesday's game with a concussion. He bumped his head in Monday's practice. SOURCE: Earl K. Sneed, Mavs.com
Insight: Kaman has been dropped out of the starting five in favor of Elton Brand on Friday and Bernard James on Sunday and has only played 23 minutes over the last two games. Brand should see more playing time with Kaman out of the lineup.
Description: Mavericks center Chris Kaman (head) didn't participate in shootaround on Tuesday. He bumped his head in practice on Monday. SOURCE: Earl K. Sneed, Mavs.com
Insight: Kaman has been dropped out of the starting five in favor of Elton Brand on Friday and Bernard James on Sunday and has only played 23 minutes over the last two games.
Description: Mavericks power forward Elton Brand started the second half at center on Sunday. While Dallas coach Rick Carlisle said he has considered making that change to the starting five and having Chris Kaman come off the bench, he indicated that the move on Monday was a situational decision. SOURCE: ESPN Dallas
Insight: Brand has been putting up 11.1 points, 7.1 rebounds and 1.8 blocks per game in 25 minutes off the bench over the last nine games. Kaman, meanwhile, has only played 21 mpg in that same span, averaging 9.1 points, 5.4 rebounds and 0.8 blocks.
Description: Mavericks shooting guard Vince Carter has scored 44 points with five rebounds, eight assists, three steals, four blocks and seven treys over his last two games.
Insight: Carter may not be a 25-ppg threat anymore but he still has fantasy relevance.
Description: Mavericks forward Shawn Marion led Dallas to a win with 20 points on 10-of-16 shooting with 10 rebounds, four assists, three steals and one turnover in 33 minutes on Sunday.
Insight: Marion isn't an every-game lock to score in double figures but he does it enough while rebounding well and picking up close to one steal per game.
Description: Dallas shooting guard O.J. Mayo only shot 3-of-14 from the field Wednesday but still scored 18 points due to his success at the free-throw line (12-13). Mayo added eight assists, six rebounds, two steals and one block in 33 minutes.
Insight: Mayo has returned to solid production after going cold for a six-game stretch in late December. He is averaging 18 points on 46 percent shooting, 4.0 rebounds, 5.0 assists, 1.7 steals and 1.8 threes in nine games this month.
Description: Mavericks power forward Elton Brand's 20 points Monday against the Timberwolves were a season high.
Insight: Brand is averaging 10 points, 6.2 boards and 1.6 blocks while shooting 61.8 percent from the field over his last nine games. He could be a short-term option for fantasy teams needing a big man.
Description: Dallas point guard Darren Collison has started the last 11 games and is averaging 15.9 points, 5.4 assists, 3.5 rebounds, 1.5 steals and 1.0 threes during that time.
Insight: Collison lucked out when veteran Derek Fisher asked for his release, leaving the Mavericks with nowhere else to turn at the point guard position. Collison is averaging 13.6 ppg and 5.7 ast in 27 starts compared to 11.5 ppg and 3.6 ast in 11 games as a sub.
Description: ESPN Dallas reports that Mavericks owner Mark Cuban won't trade franchise power forward Dirk Nowitzki.
Insight: Cuban said he told his veteran superstar, "We're in this through thick and thin." Even though the Mavericks are eight games below .500, it's clear they have no intention of parting with Dirk. The 11-time All-Star is averaging 13.5 ppg this season, his lowest output since his rookie season in 1998-99.
Description: Mavericks center Chris Kaman scored 14 points on 7-of-13 shooting with seven boards and a block Saturday night in just 23 minutes of play.
Insight: Even with Saturday's effort, Kaman is only averaging 9.4 points and 5.8 rebounds in 22 minutes over five games since Dirk Nowitzki rejoined the starting lineup. Dallas has a crowded forward rotation with Vince Carter, Shawn Marion and Dahntay Jones all capable of playing the three and Marion, Nowitzki, Jae Crowder and Elton Brand able to play the four. Coach Rick Carlisle can alleviate the logjam by playing Brand or Nowitzki at center, and that limits Kaman's minutes.
Description: Dallas forward Dirk Nowitzki scored 17 points on 5-of-8 shooting (3-3 3PT, 4-7 FT) with three rebounds, three assists and one block in 28 minutes Saturday against Memphis.
Insight: Nowitzki has produced 17.8 points, 6.4 rebounds and 3.4 assists in 33.5 minutes over five games since rejoining the starting lineup. Get him back in the lineup now.
Description: Mavericks power forward Dirk Nowitzki will start Saturday for the first time this season, coach Rick Carlisle said. SOURCE: Earl K. Sneed, Mavs.com
Insight: Nowitzki had his best game since returning from knee surgery Wednesday against Miami (season-high 19 points on 7-of-15 shooting with six rebounds in 29 minutes). He practiced with the starters Friday for the first time this season so it was assumed he would rejoin the starting lineup Saturday. The time is now to get Nowitzki back in your lineup.
Description: Mavericks power forward Dirk Nowitzki practiced with the starters on Friday for the first time this season. SOURCE: Tim MacMahon, ESPNDallas.com
Insight: Nowitzki had his best game since returning from knee surgery Wednesday against Miami (season-high 19 points on 7-of-15 shooting with six rebounds in 29 minutes). Mavericks coach Rick Carlisle and Nowitzki were noncommittal about whether he'd start Saturday, but he is seemingly close to rejoining the starting lineup.
Description: Mavericks power forward Dirk Nowitzki says he should be back in the starting lineup "in a week or so," according to a Dallas Morning News report.
Insight: Nowitzki had his best game since returning from knee surgery Wednesday against Miami (season-high 19 points on 7-of-15 shooting with six rebounds in 29 minutes).
Description: Mavericks power forward Dirk Nowitzki played his best game in six games since returning from knee surgery, scoring a season-high 19 points on 7-15 shooting with six rebounds and two threes on Wednesday against Miami.
Insight: Nowitzki only played 21 mpg in the first five games but bumped it up to 29 in Wednesday's overtime loss. The question is which starting forward will hit the bench when Nowitzki is ready to return to the starting lineup? We think it will be Vince Carter, who has started at small forward the last three games (17 ppg in that stretch), with Shawn Marion moving back to small forward.
Description: Dallas shooting guard O.J. Mayo led the team in an overtime loss to Miami on Wednesday with 30 points on 12-of-21 shooting (4-10 3PT), six assists, three rebounds and three steals in 46 minutes.
Insight: It was Mayo's first 20-point game since Dec. 18 and first 30-pointer since Dec. 8. The guard appears to be back on track after going cold for 10 days -- he has made 18-of-31 from the field and 7-of-14 from 3-point range his last two games after making just 3-of-25 from behind the arc in his previous six games.
Description: Mavericks' PF Brandan Wright is questionable for Wednesday's game against Miami due to a strained right quad.
Insight: The return of Dirk Nowitzki alongside big men Shawn Marion, Chris Kaman and Elton Brand means Wright was seeing his playing time drop even before the injury. Wright's fantasy value is minimal.
Description: Mavericks shooting guard Vince Carter's 23 points Tuesday were his second-most in any game this season.
Insight: Carter used to routinely pour in 23 ppg in his prime but he's no longer playing at that level. He has played 27.5 mpg in two games since joining the starting lineup; we'll see if that changes his level of production.
Description: Mavericks center Chris Kaman has stayed relatively healthy this season and is averaging 13.6 points, 6.4 rebounds and 0.9 blocks through 30 games.
Insight: Kaman has a .516 field goal percentage, his best in four seasons. The veteran center is only playing 25 mpg, the second lowest of his career, but at least he's staying on the court and has Dallas' starting center spot under wraps.
Description: Dallas forward Shawn Marion has 11 points, 14 rebounds, four assists and one steal while making 5-of-7 from the field Tuesday against the Wizards.
Insight: Marion was coming off several poor shooting performances -- 10-of-31 over his last four games -- but pulled things together Tuesday.
Description: Dallas shooting guard O.J. Mayo drilled 3-of-4 from the 3-point line and 6-of-10 overall Tuesday against Washington, finishing with 15 points, five assists and two steals.
Insight: Mayo has cooled off dramatically after a torrid start. He averaged 20.6 points, made 48.8 percent from the field and 51.9 percent from the 3-point line in his first 25 games but just 9.6 points on 33.8 percent shooting (.207 3PT) over his last seven games.
Description: Mavericks power forward Dirk Nowitzki's 11 points Tuesday were his most in five games since returning from a knee injury.
Insight: Nowitzki only played 17 minutes Tuesday, his lowest in the last five games. He isn't worth starting in fantasy leagues until he's healthy enough to play 30 minutes per game.
Description: According to the Dallas Morning News, Mavericks forward Dirk Nowitzki's knee is feeling "10 times better." Nowitzki has appeared in four games since his return from offseason surgery.
Insight: Nowitzki (7.5 ppg) has only been playing 21.8 minutes per game off the bench and hasn't found his shot yet (32.4 field goal percentage). It's a good sign that he's feeling better but we're not ready to say Dirk's totally back until we see him start a couple of games.
Description: Dallas point guard Darren Collison will start again Friday after scoring a season-high 32 points Thursday in an overtime loss to Oklahoma City.
Insight: Collison has seemingly won back the starting point guard job that was up for grabs after Derek Fisher asked for his release. He shot 13-of-22 (4-4 3PT) with five rebounds, four assists and four steals Thursday and should be active in all fantasy lineups Friday against the Nuggets
Description: Dallas shooting guard O.J. Mayo (flu) will play Thursday against Oklahoma City. SOURCE: Royce Young, CBSSports.com
Insight: Mayo is averaging 19.3 ppg this season but that average could drop now that No. 1 option Dirk Nowitzki has returned. Nowitzki will come off the bench again Thursday and will be on a "flexible minute limitation."
Description: Mavericks forward Dirk Nowitzki will come off the bench Thursday against Oklahoma City.
Insight: Nowitzki scored eight points in his season debut Sunday versus San Antonio. He had missed the first 27 games of the year with an injured knee.
Description: Mavericks shooting guard O.J. Mayo was sent home from practice on Monday with the flu. The good news is that Dallas doesn't play until Thursday.
Insight: Mayo is averaging 20.2 ppg, 4.0 rpg and 3.7 apg and has picked up a big portion of Dirk Nowitzki's scoring while the Mavs' star was sidelined. Expect to see Mayo's points fall as Nowitzki works his way back into the offense.
Description: Dallas Mavericks forward Dirk Nowitzki (knee) sent a nice holiday gift to all his fantasy owners by coming off the bench Sunday night - his first action of the season.
Insight: Nowitzki played just 20 minutes, going 3-for-4 from the field for eight points and pulling down six rebounds. He'll have to build up his stamina, but as long as he wakes up on Monday without any problems fantasy owners will be happy.
Description: The Mavericks will waive Derek Fisher at his request. SOURCE: Marc Stein, ESPN
Insight: Fisher injured his patellar tendon Tuesday and will return home to be with his family. The team will call up Chris Douglas-Roberts from the D-League to replace Fisher. According to Stein, Douglas-Roberts is widely rated as the top current NBA prospect in the D-League. The Mavericks will continue to explore potential trade options to bolster the point guard position, which doesn't bode well for the fantasy value of Darren Collison.
Description: Mavericks power forward Elton Brand is out for Friday's game against Memphis because of a right groin strain.
Insight: Brand's 6.8 ppg and 42.9 field goal percentage are both career lows. Even when he's healthy, Brand's production doesn't justify a spot on any fantasy rosters.
Description: Mavericks point guard Derek Fisher will miss at least three games with a knee injury, the team announced. SOURCE: Tim MacMahon, ESPNDallas.com
Insight: Darren Collison will have a chance to move into the starting lineup. Collison is averaging 12.9 ppg and 6.3 apg in 14 starts this season. Fisher will be re-evaluated next week.
Description: Mavericks point guard Derek Fisher won't be available for Thursday's game against the Heat because of a strained patellar tendon in his right knee.
Insight: With Fisher getting the night off, Darren Collison will have a chance to move into the starting lineup. Collison is averaging 12.9 ppg and 6.3 apg in 14 starts this season.
Description: Dallas Mavericks forward Dirk Nowitzki (knee) went through a full practice session on Wednesday.
Insight: He previously said it would take him a week or two before he's ready to play in a game once he started practicing, but he could be ready anytime before the end of the year. If he's still available in any fantasy league, pick him up immediately.
Description: Mavericks shooting guard O.J. Mayo netted 26 points on 8-12 shooting (2-2 3PT, 8-9 FT) with eight assists, three rebounds and three steals Tuesday against the Sixers.
Insight: Mayo is still shooting nearly 52 percent on 3-point attempts this season. He's averaging 22.2 ppg this month.
Description: After starting despite having the flu, Mavericks point guard Derek Fisher left Tuesday's game with a right knee strain in the first quarter. SOURCE: Mark Followill, Mavericks broadcaster
Insight: Fisher wasn't expected to play due to the illness but ended up starting. He's doubtful to return, giving Darren Collison extra minutes.
Description: Dallas point guard Darren Collison will come off the bench again Tuesday.
Insight: Starter Derek Fisher was believed to be out with the flu but word has come through that Fisher will start Tuesday. Collison is only averaging 11 points and 4.0 assists in his last nine games, all off the bench, but his 3.1 rebounds and 1.9 steals in that span have helped keep his fantasy value up.
Description: Mavericks point guard Derek Fisher might still try to play despite dealing with the flu. He was believed to be out an hour ago. SOURCE: Bryan Gutierrez, Mavs.com
Insight: Fisher has started all eight games but his averages (9.4 ppg, 1.9 rpg, 3.9 apg) make him a low-end fantasy option. If he can't go Tuesday he almost certainly will be back Thursday against Miami. Darren Collison would start in Fisher's absence.
Description: Mavericks point guard Derek Fisher will miss Tuesday's game against Philadelphia. He's dealing with the flu.
Insight: Fisher has started all eight games but his averages (9.4 ppg, 1.9 rpg, 3.9 apg) make him a low-end fantasy option. He should be able to return Thursday night versus Miami.
Description: Dallas center Chris Kaman missed Monday's practice to attend to a personal matter (funeral), but is expected to be ready to play against Philadelphia on Tuesday.
Insight: Kaman has remained relatively healthy this season and been efficient from the field, shooting 53.3 percent from the field and averaging 14.2 ppg. Kaman has scored at least 10 points in 10 straight games and 13 of his last 14.
Description: Mavericks forward Jae Crowder is back in the lineup for Saturday's game against the Timberwolves. Crowder missed two games in a row earlier this week while battling the flu.
Insight: Since scoring a career-high 15 points against the Lakers on November 24th, Crowder has averaged just 3.9 ppg on 22.7 percent shooting. Hopefully you have better options than Crowder to fill your small forward position.
Description: Dallas Mavericks forward Dirk Nowitzki (knee) could take part in practice next week. SOURCE: Dallas Morning News
Insight: Nowitzki ran through a long set of shooting and running drills before Friday's game at Toronto after going through some of the team's shootaround earlier in the day. Nowitzki hasn't done any hard cutting yet, and he'll need to be cleared to do that before he starts practicing. Once Nowitzki starts practicing, he said it will take him a week or two before he's ready to play in a game.
Description: Dallas forward Shawn Marion has produced two straight double-doubles since returning from a groin injury.
Insight: Marion scored 12 points with 13 boards Friday after putting up 16 and 11 Wednesday. While the Matrix is nowhere near the fantasy force he was in Phoenix in the mid-2000s, he's still a multi-category contributor.
Description: Dallas center Chris Kaman scored 15 points on 7-of-18 shooting with five rebounds Friday versus Toronto.
Insight: Kaman has remained relatively healthy this season and been super efficient from the field, shooting 53.3 percent from the field and averaging 14.2 ppg. Kaman has scored at least 10 points in nine straight games and 12 of his last 13.
Description: Dallas forward Jae Crowder (illness) will be active Friday against the Raptors but may not dress due to flu-like symptoms. SOURCE: Earl Sneed, Mavs.com
Insight: Crowder (6.4 ppg, 2.7 rpg, 1.4 apg, 1.2 spg) probably isn't too widely owned in fantasy leagues but anyone who does own the forward should remove him from lineups Friday.
Description: Dallas forward Jae Crowder is questionable on Friday against the Toronto with flu-like symptoms.
Insight: Crowder (6.4 ppg, 2.7 rpg, 1.4 apg, 1.2 spg) has done a nice job in limited playing time for the Mavs this season, but we're not ready to call him "fantasy-worthy" just yet.
Description: Mavericks forward Shawn Marion is back in the lineup for Wednesday's game in Boston. Marion missed the team's previous two games with a strained groin.
Insight: Marion is averaging 18.5 ppg in 22 career games against the Celtics.
Description: Dallas forward Jae Crowder won't be on the floor for Wednesday's game against Boston. He's at the team hotel dealing with a fever.
Insight: Crowder (6.4 ppg) has done a nice job in limited playing time for the Mavs this season but we're not ready to call him "fantasy-worthy" just yet.
Description: Dallas small forward Shawn Marion won't be in action Monday against Sacramento. He's dealing with a strained right groin.
Insight: With Marion out, the Mavericks will use three guards in their starting lineup. Derek Fisher (6.5 ppg) will be starting at the point with Dahntay Jones (3.0 ppg) and O.J. Mayo (20.9 ppg) both playing at the two.
Description: Dallas center Chris Kaman will be in the starting lineup Monday against Sacramento.
Insight: Kaman sprained his ankle against Phoenix on Saturday night so his availability for tonight's game had been somewhat in question. Kaman is fifth among Western Conference centers in ppg (14.1).
Description: Mavericks center Chris Kaman (sprained ankle) is probable for Monday's game against Sacramento.
Insight: Kaman started Saturday, scored 20 points and hauled in seven rebounds in just 19 minutes against Houston. He's got a history of struggling with injuries, so check back just before tip-off to be sure he's in uniform.
Description: Mavericks forward Shawn Marion (groin) will be a game-time decision Monday against the Kings. SOURCE: Fort Worth Star-Telegram
Insight: Marion missed Saturday's game versus Houston after straining his right groin Thursday against Phoenix. "It feels a lot better," Marion said. "I'll evaluate myself tonight and go from there." Marion is a mid-level fantasy forward when healthy.
Description: Mavericks center Chris Kaman (sprained ankle) started Saturday and scored 20 points in just 19 minutes against Houston.
Insight: Kaman also grabbed seven boards. It was a pleasant surprise for owners who started Kaman despite the sprained ankle. We'll see how his ankle responds.
Description: Mavericks shooting guard O.J. Mayo had a season-high 40 points on 15-of-26 shooting (6-of-9 3PT) with eight rebounds, three assists and two steals Saturday against Houston.
Insight: Through 20 games, Mayo has made better than 52 percent of his 3-point attempts (58-of-111). With Dirk Nowitzki out, he's taken the lead in Dallas' offense and has provided fantasy owners with 20.9 ppg.
Description: Mavericks forward Shawn Marion is out for Saturday's game against Houston. He injured his groin in Thursday's win over Phoenix.
Insight: Though Marion is averaging a career-low 9.6 ppg this season, he's actually been very efficient, connecting on 49.6 percent of his field goal attempts. His 88.2 percent success rate from the free throw line is a career-high.
Description: Mavericks center Chris Kaman (sprained ankle) was doubtful for Saturday's game but he'll suit up after all. He could play limited minutes, however. SOURCE: NBA.com
Insight: Kaman is averaging 13.7 ppg and 6.9 rpg while playing almost 27 minutes per game but we'd sit him down Saturday against the Rockets as he's no guarantee to make it through a full game.
Description: Dallas forward Shawn Marion is doubtful for Saturday's game against Houston with a strained right groin.
Insight: Marion missed five games earlier this month with a sprained MCL, but he considers this a minor thing. He's averaging 9.6 ppg, 7.1 rpg and 2.6 apg this season. Vince Carter would see additional time if Marion can't go.
Description: Mavericks center Chris Kaman is doubtful for Saturday's game against Houston with a sprained left ankle. X-rays were negative, but Kaman was limping badly after the game.
Insight: Kaman is averaging 13.7 ppg and 6.9 rpg while playing almost 27 minutes per game. Elton Brand and Brandan Wright would see a rise in their minutes until kaman is healthy again.
Description: A mid-December return for Mavericks forward Dirk Nowitzki (knee) no longer looks realistic. SOURCE: Eddie Sefko, Dallas Morning News
Insight: Wednesday was the first day that Nowitzki has done court work, but he was limited to shooting and dribbling with no full running or cutting. Nowitzki said his quad muscle is still weak after knee swelling lingered and prevented him from working out sooner. Shooting guard O.J. Mayo (19.7 ppg) will remain Dallas' best fantasy option until Nowitzki returns.
Description: Mavericks shooting guard O.J. Mayo broke out of a slump by notching 27 points in a win against Detroit on Saturday night.
Insight: Mayo went bonkers from three-point range, knocking down six of his nine attempts. He's shooting an absurd 52.7 percent from that distance this season. That's second in the NBA behind San Antonio's Matt Bonner (55.6 percent).
Description: Dallas point guard Darren Collison is questionable for Saturday's game against Detroit. He's struggling with a sprained finger on his right hand.
Insight: It's been an up and down season for Collison, who is coming off the bench behind starter Derek Fisher. Collison is averaging 12.9 ppg, 2.3 rpg and 6.3 apg.
Description: The Mavericks have waived veteran forward Troy Murphy to make room on the roster for Derek Fisher.
Insight: Murphy has shot a dismal 36.1 percent from the field in 14 games this season. It's possible Murphy could latch on with another team at some point but doing so won't be enough to suddenly make him a worthwhile fantasy player.
Description: Dallas guard O.J. Mayo's recent poor play could be the result of soreness in both of his ankles.
Insight: Mayo hasn't been sharp lately, averaging just 9.3 ppg on 32.3 percent shooting in his last three games. Fantasy owners might want to stash Mayo on the bench until his ankle woes go away.
Description: Former Lakers guard Derek Fisher has agreed to a deal with the Mavericks.
Insight: Head coach Rick Carlisle has already pegged Fisher as the team's starting point guard. That can't be good for Darren Collison's fantasy value moving forward.
Description: Dallas point guard Darren Collison won't be available for Wednesday night's game against Chicago. He's struggling with a sprained finger on his right hand.
Insight: It's been an up and down season for Collison. Saturday he looked awful (1-for-10 from the field) but Tuesday against the Sixers he played much better and finished with 12 points. This injury seems pretty minor so we wouldn't expect the former Pacer to miss more than a game or two.
Description: Dallas forward Elton Brand only played 19 minutes off the bench Tuesday against his former team Philadelphia but he made them count, scoring a season-high 17 points on 5-of-10 shooting with eight rebounds.
Insight: Brand has only scored in double figures two other times this season. This was likely nothing more than a case of vengeance against his ex-team.
Description: Dallas forward Shawn Marion had his best game since returning from a knee injury on Nov. 16, scoring 17 points on 6-of-12 shooting with eight rebounds, one assist and zero turnovers in 32:24 Tuesday against the 76ers.
Insight: Marion missed five games earlier this month with a sprained MCL. Tuesday's effort should show fantasy owners that the Matrix' knee is feeling better.
Description: Mavericks point guard Darren Collison was the latest player to find himself coming off the bench as coach Rick Carlisle continues to tinker.
Insight: Collison scored 12 points on 5-of-11 shooting with six assists, three rebounds and five steals in 30 minutes. Aside from the five steals, that's about the production we've come to expect from him this season. Tuesday's starting PG Dominique Jones only played 18 minutes and scored two points on 0-of-5 shooting.
Description: Mavericks center Chris Kaman moved back into the starting lineup after a one-game cameo off the bench and scored 20 points on 9-of-13 shooting Tuesday against the Sixers.
Insight: Kaman was placed on the bench in place of Brandan Wright for Saturday's game and scored just four points on 2-of-12 shooting while fouling out in 23.5 minutes of play. Wright was back on the pine Tuesday and picked up a DNP-CD.
Description: The Mavericks will start Dominique Jones at point guard Tuesday against the 76ers, with Darren Collison moving to the bench. Jae Crowder also gets the start at power forward in place of Elton Brand, and Chris Kaman steps back into the starting lineup for Brandan Wright after coming off the bench for one game.
Insight: Mavericks coach Rick Carlisle has frequently changed up his rotation this season. This will be his seventh different starting lineup, tied for most in the NBA with Orlando.
Description: Mavericks shooting guard O.J. Mayo is probable for Tuesday's game against Philadelphia with a sprained left ankle he suffered in practice on Sunday.
Insight: After back-to-back 27 points games, Mayo struggled with his shooting versus the Lakers and could only post a 13-point effort.
Description: In the latest change to Dallas' big man rotation, Chris Kaman came off the bench and scored just four points on 2-of-12 shooting Saturday against the Lakers.
Insight: Mavericks coach Rick Carlisle might want to go back to the drawing board. Starters Brandan Wright and Elton Brand combined for six points and five rebounds in the loss. We should see Kaman inserted back into the starting lineup soon enough.
Description: Mavericks point guard Darren Collison went just 1-for-10 from the field for two points with four turnovers Saturday against the Lakers.
Insight: Collison has sandwiched a 19-point game with two games in which he shot a combined 3-of-21 from the field for nine points. The point guard is only averaging 11.1 points on 35.9 percent shooting his last nine games after averaging 16.2 on 56.1 percent shooting in his first five.
Description: Mavericks shooting guard O.J. Mayo struggled with his shot for the first time this season Saturday against the Lakers, going 0-of-5 from 3-point range and 5-of-15 overall from the field.
Insight: Mayo had 18 or more points in 11 straight games prior to Saturday's game, but he wasn't going to shoot close to 60 percent from behind the arc all season. He'll try to get back in rhythm Tuesday at Philadelphia.
Description: Mavericks center Brandan Wright and Elton Brand will start Saturday's game. SOURCE: Earl Sneed, Mavs.com.
Insight: Wright started the first eight games this season, scoring double figures in the first six, but has been buried on the bench since Chris Kaman returned. Brand came off the bench Wednesday in favor of Troy Murphy. Kaman is still the player to own out of the four big men; his minutes shouldn't change much despite coming off the bench.
Description: Mavericks shooting guard Vince Carter swished five threes in 10 attempts and shot 9-of-17 from the field overall for 25 points Wednesday against the Knicks.
Insight: Carter is averaging 24 minutes off the bench this season. He's a low-end fantasy guard option due to his decent 3-point shooting.
Description: According to Mavericks beat writer Bryan Gutierrez, Dirk Nowitzki will resume basketball activites in about two weeks.
Insight: Nowitzki was originally slated to miss up to six weeks and this fits right in with that schedule. He'll need a third week to get into shape and could be back in mid-December.
Description: Dallas center Chris Kaman swatted away six shots Saturday night in a victory over Cleveland.
Insight: Kaman also had 15 points and eight boards for the Mavs, who were able to improve to 6-5 with the win. Next up for Dallas is Golden State Monday night at American Airlines Arena.
Description: Mavericks center Brandan Wright missed shootaround with an illness but he'll play Friday.
Insight: Wright started the season with six straight double-digit scoring efforts but he was a healthy DNP Wednesday and is sure to get uneven playing time now that Chris Kaman has been inserted into the starting lineup.
Description: Dallas small forward Shawn Marion will join the team in Indiana and Cleveland this weekend, though it's uncertain whether or not he'll be able to play.
Insight: Marion has been out over a week while tending to a left knee injury. When he comes back he'll return to a scoring average of eight ppg to go along with nine boards per contest.
Description: Mavericks forward Shawn Marion (sprained MCL) is unsure of his return, but it's unlikely to come this week. SOURCE: Jeff Caplan, NBA.com
Insight: Marion is a solid fantasy contributor across multiple categories so he's been missed. Jae Crowder has started the last four games but has failed to crack double figures in any of them.
Description: Mavericks shooting guard Vince Carter will be available to play Monday night versus the Timberwolves. Carter had been considered questionable because of a hip injury.
Insight: Carter nailed five of his eight three-point attempts in a loss to the Bobcats on Saturday night. He's averaging 14.3 ppg for the season, a four-point improvement from his scoring average in 2011-12 (10.1).
Description: Mavericks shooting guard O.J. Mayo has scored at a rate of 25.8 points per game the last five contests.
Insight: Saturday marked five straight games with 22 or more points for Mayo, who has taken the lead for Dallas' offense with Dirk Nowitzki sidelined. Mayo has made a ridiculous 60.9 percent of his 3-pointers (28-of-46) while averaging a respectable 3.7 rebounds and 3.0 assists per game.
Description: Dallas guard Vince Carter (hip) will play Saturday.
Insight: Carter is no longer the fantasy force he was five years ago. His 13.5 ppg and 1.8 3PM make him a solid bench player but not someone you should be counting on to carry your lineup.
Description: Dallas guard Vince Carter injured his hip Friday night against the Knicks but doesn't expect to miss any playing time.
Insight: Carter was sidelined briefly on Friday before eventually returning to action. He scored 15 points on 6-of-14 shooting. He should be fine to play Saturday night in Charlotte.
Description: Dallas forward Elton Brand, who left the team to be with his wife while she gave birth, has returned and is expected to play Friday against the New York Knicks.
Insight: Brand has so far been disappointing averaging 5.8 ppg, 6.3 rpg, 2.3 apg, 1.3 spg. while playing over 25 minutes per game.
Description: Dallas PG Roddy Beaubois is questionable for Wednesday's game against Toronto with a sprained left ankle.
Insight: Beaubois turned his ankle in practice and missed Monday's game with Portland. He's averaging 16 mpg and scoring 9.5 ppg. He'll likely only have fantasy value through an injury to a starter.
Description: Mavericks forward Shawn Marion has been diagnosed with a sprained MCL and will miss the next few games, according to Dallas beat writer Dwain Price.
Insight: Marion isn't the guy we remember from his Suns days, but he's averaging 8.0 ppg, 9.0 rpg, 3.3 apg, 0.5 spg and 1.3 bpg. He's what is known as a box score filler.
Description: Dallas center Chris Kaman has scored 16 points in both games since returning from a calf injury.
Insight: Kaman missed the first two games this season after playing in just 47 in 2011-12 with the Hornets, but he's returned and provided solid center production off the bench. Look for him to eventually move into the starting lineup in favor of Brandan Wright (12.3 ppg) or Elton Brand (5.8 ppg, 6.3 rpg).
Description: Mavericks shooting guard O.J. Mayo scored 32 points on 12-of-18 shooting (6-of-8 3PT) Monday against the Trail Blazers.
Insight: After an average start, Mayo has caught fire the last two games, making 13-of-18 from 3-point range and 22-of-35 overall from the field in two consecutive 30-point efforts. We endorsed Mayo as a top shooting guard option after he signed with Dallas and he hasn't disappointed so far.
Description: Dallas shooting guard O.J. Mayo was a key contributor in Saturday's blowout win over the Bobcats.
Insight: Mayo converted seven of his 10 three-point attempts for a season-high 30 points. Through three games he leads the Mavericks in scoring at 18 ppg.
Description: Dallas center Chris Kaman (calf) is expected to debut in the home opener Saturday night, according to the Dallas Morning News.
Insight: Kaman missed the first two games this season after playing in just 47 in 2011-12 with the Hornets. The center has career averages of 11.9 ppg, 8.3 rpg and 1.5 bpg.
Description: Troy Murphy has signed with the Mavericks, according to Yahoo! Sports.
Insight: Murphy hasn't had fantasy value since 2009-10, but the move is noteworthy because it could mean the team is worried about the availability of injured forward Dirk Nowitzki later this season.
Description: Mavericks center Brandan Wright has averaged 14.5 ppg on 92.3 percent shooting in his first two games this season.
Insight: The Mavericks are desperate for front-court scoring with Dirk Nowitzki out and Wright has supplied it, making 12-of-13 from the field and 5-of-7 free throws. While Wright hasn't been more than a backup big man in his NBA career, he could prove to be useful in an expanded role.
Description: Mavericks point guard Darren Collison has scored 17 points in each of his first two games with the team.
Insight: Collison has averaged 13.6 points and 5.9 assists in 174 career starts. He doesn't have any competition for Dallas' starting PG position so he should post solid numbers for fantasy owners.
Description: Dallas center Chris Kaman (knee) will miss at least the first two games of the season, according to ESPN.com.
Insight: No surprise that Kaman is injured, he's missed significant time in four of the past five seasons. When he's on the court he's a solid fantasy player who averaged 13.1 ppg and 7.7 rpg last season but he's expected to be sidelined until at least Saturday's home game versus Charlotte.
Description: Mavericks guard Delonte West is expected to be released or traded following his latest transgression. West was suspended Thursday for the second time this month for "conduct detrimental to the team."
Insight: Dallas wasted no time filling West's vacant roster spot as the team claimed center Eddy Curry off waivers on Thursday. West is a strong defensive player and an above average shooter but his history of problems on and off the court could make it difficult to find a new team if the Mavericks waive him.
Description: Dallas guard Delonte West has suspended again for "conduct detrimental to the team."
Insight: West has already been suspended for one game this preseason for the same reason so this one will likely be longer. The guard has a long history of erratic and quirky behavior.
Description: ESPN Dallas reports that injured Mavericks forward Dirk Nowitzki could make his return from knee surgery earlier than expected.
Insight: Nowitzki was originally slated to miss up to six weeks but now it looks like the veteran forward could be back by mid-November. That's good news for fantasy owners who drafted Nowitzki before his knee surgery last week.
Description: Dallas Mavericks forward Dirk Nowitzki underwent arthroscopic surgery on his right knee and will have to wait six weeks before resuming on-court activities, according to a Dallas Morning News.
Insight: Nowitzki is the heart of the Mavericks' offense, averaging 21.6 ppg, 6.8 rpg and 2.2 apg last season. His absence should allow more scoring for newcomers Chris Kaman, O.J. Mayo and Darren Collison.
Description: Dallas guard Delonte West has been reinstated following a one-game suspension for "conduct detrimental to the team."
Insight: The ninth-year guard was suspended following a locker room tantrum earlier in the week. He returned Wednesday and scored seven points as the Mavericks fell 100-94 to the Suns.
Description: Eddie Sefko of the Dallas Morning News said Mavericks coach Rick Carlisle's tone did not sound positive regarding forward Dirk Nowitzki's sore and swollen right knee when he spoke to reporters Monday.
Insight: Carlisle was short with the media regarding Nowitzki prior to the team's preseason home opener. "Dirk's not playing tonight," Carlisle said. He'll talk to you after the game. Next subject." Carlisle said not to jump to any conclusions but it doesn't seem like Nowitzki's knee is headed in the right direction.
Description: Dallas forward Dirk Nowitzki practiced Friday after having his knee drained for a second time.
Insight: Nowitzki will likely opt for surgery if the swelling returns to his knee. We'll have to see how his knee responds to practice the next few days.
Description: Dallas forward Dirk Nowitzki has been struggling with a sore knee and might need surgery according to The Dallas Morning News.
Insight: If Nowtizki has surgery it will probably be after the season. Nowitzki is coming off one of the worst seasons of his career and probably won't fare much better in 2012-13 if he's hobbling around on a bum knee all season.
Description: It didn't take long for the injury bug to hit Dallas center Chris Kaman. He sprained his lower back in the team's first practice of training camp.
Insight: Though the injury is not considered serious, this kind of wear and tear is to be expected for a player entering his 10th season in the league. Kaman averaged a respectable 13.1 ppg, 7.7 rpg and 1.6 bpg for New Orleans last year and should occupy a similar role with the Mavericks this season. If he can stay healthy, there's some potential here. But that's a big if.
Description: Mavericks newly acquired shooting guard O.J. Mayo should have a chance to be fantasy-worthy again after being buried on the Memphis bench the last two seasons. Mayo had started all 82 games in both 2008 and 2009 before being relegated to sixth-man status the past two seasons.
Insight: In Dallas he'll likely start at SG which could substantially boosts his fantasy value. He averaged 17.9 ppg, 3.7 rpg and 3.1 apg in his first two seasons at Memphis while a starter and 11.9 ppg, 2.7 rpg, 2.3 apg in his last two years.
Description: According to ESPN, shooting guard O.J. Mayo has agreed to a multi-year contract with the Dallas Mavericks.
Insight: Mayo came off the bench in each of the last two seasons with Memphis and saw his points per game decline to 11.3 in 2010-11 and 12.6 last season. He'll likely start at SG with the Mavericks, which substantially boosts his fantasy value.
Description: The Mavericks have acquired forward Elton Brand off of waivers. Brand was waived by the 76ers earlier in the offseason using the team's amnesty clause.
Insight: Dallas started the offseason by losing guards Jason Kidd (6.2 ppg, 5.5 apg) and Jason Terry (15.1 ppg) to New York and Boston respectively and also failed to lure hometown favorite Deron Williams (21 ppg, 8.7 apg) away from Brooklyn. Since then however, they've traded for Darren Collison (10.4 ppg, 4.8 apg), signed veteran center Chris Kaman (13.1 ppg, 7.7 rpg, 1.6 bpg) to a new deal and now they've landed Brand (11 ppg, 7.2 rpg, 1.6 bpg) via waivers. Things might not be so bad in Big D next season after all.
Description: Dallas used its amnesty clause on center Brendan Haywood, who will now become a free agent.
Insight: After signing Chris Kaman, the Mavericks really didn't need Haywood anymore. He averaged 5.2 ppg and 6 rpg in 54 contests last season. At this point in the former North Carolina star's career, Haywood just isn't fantasy material.
Description: Center Chris Kaman appears to be headed to the Dallas Mavericks on a one-year deal.
Insight: Kaman averaged 13.1 ppg, 7.7 rpg and 1.6 bpg last year in his only season with the New Orleans Hornets. The 30-year-old should be a big improvement over Brendan Haywood, who averaged 5.2 ppg and 6 rpg as the Mavericks' starting center last season. Haywood was waived on Thursday, making him a free agent.
Description: The Pacers have agreed to trade point guard Darren Collison and shooting guard Dahntay Jones to the Mavericks for center Ian Mahinmi.
Insight: Dallas was looking for a starting point guard after Deron Williams chose to stay with the Nets and Jason Kidd jumped to the Knicks. The Mavericks also lost Jason Terry to Boston, so Collison figures to play a major role. He averaged 10.4 ppg and 4.8 apg as Indiana's starting PG last season, but he'll likely exceed those numbers with Dallas, coming closer to his 2010-11 totals of 13.2 points and 5.1 assists per game.
Description: The Celtics will pursue Mavericks guard Jason Terry if they are unable to re-sign Ray Allen this offseason.
Insight: As reliable as Terry has been throughout his career (16.1 ppg in 1022 career NBA games), it's doubtful that Boston would break the bank for a 34-year-old backup shooting guard, especially after signing 36-year-old Kevin Garnett to a new three-year deal. The Celtics are also said to be looking at some younger alternatives at guard including Nick Young (14.2 ppg) and O.J. Mayo (12.6 ppg).
Description: The Mavericks exercised their 2012-13 option on shooting guard Vince Carter. The 14-year veteran is scheduled to earn $3.1 million next season.
Insight: Carter had his worst season as a pro for Dallas in 2011-12, averaging a career-low 10.1 ppg on just 41.1 percent shooting. Interestingly enough, while all of Carter's other stats declined last season, he was still a pretty productive three-point shooter, connecting on 36.1 percent of his attempts. Now that Carter has lost some of the athleticism that made him such a dangerous scorer early on in his career, expect Carter to settle for more mid-range and long range jumpers as his career continues.
Description: Free agent point guards Deron Williams and Jason Kidd have decided that they will sign with the same team when free agency begins Sunday at midnight. It appears that that team will be either the Mavericks (who Kidd has played for for the last four years) or the Nets (who Williams has played with since 2011).
Insight: Kidd is very familiar with the Nets organization. If you remember, he played six seasons there between 2001-2007, even leading them to the finals in both 2002 and 2003. Kidd's fantasy value is pretty minimal at this point in his career (6.2 ppg, 5.5 apg and 4.1 rpg for Dallas in 2011-12) so fantasy owners shouldn't worry about Kidd stealing minutes or taking away any stats from Williams when they're playing together next season.
