Mavericks Rumors: Stoudemire, Aminu, Ellis

Amar’e Stoudemire may be with another team next season, especially if the Mavericks can land a top-tier free agent this summer, writes Eddie Sefko of The Dallas Morning News. After being waived by the Knicks, Stoudemire came to Dallas and averaged 10.8 points in 23 games while emerging as a locker room leader. However, the Mavericks are expected to chase LaMarcus Aldridge and DeAndre Jordan in free agency, which would make Stoudemire’s return unlikely. Sefko also examines some other Dallas free agents, writing that Rajon Rondo and Greg Smith are definitely leaving, although the writer is just making an educated guess on Smith. Sefko says Bernard James may find a better deal elsewhere, and the fate of Richard Jefferson and Charlie Villanueva will depend on the market.

There’s more free agency news from Dallas:

  • Al-Farouq Aminu is probably looking for a larger role and larger contract than the Mavericks are willing to give him, Sefko writes in a separate story. He’s the type of young, high-energy player Dallas needs, but as a small forward he could be trapped behind Chandler Parsons for the next two seasons, although Parsons can opt out next summer. Aminu can also play power forward, but Dirk Nowitzki is in his way there.
  • If Monta Ellis decides to opt out of the $9MM he is owed next season, it will leave Dallas with a difficult decision, Sefko writes. Ellis is a big-time NBA scorer and would form a lethal inside-outside combination if the Mavericks are lucky enough to land Aldridge. However, Ellis’ defense is suspect and he tends to be a streak shooter. If Dallas gives him a max contract, Sefko argues, he would be another overpaid player on the roster along with Parsons.
  • The Mavericks’ poor choices at point guard may force them to keep J.J. Barea, Sefko contends. With Devin Harris and Raymond Felton competing for the starting job, Dallas needs a competent backup, and Sefko notes that the free agent options aren’t promising.
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