Report: Mavs to decline Dirk's option, will sign him to new deal
The Dallas Mavericks have declined Dirk Nowitzki's $25-million team option for next season with the intention of signing him to a new deal this summer, league sources tell ESPN's Marc Stein.
Nowitzki inked a two-year, $50-million contract with the team last offseason.
The Mavs are currently weighing their options and are strongly considering signing the future Hall of Famer to a two-year contract, but will ultimately do "what Dirk wants," according to Stein.
With the 39-year-old power forward off the books for now, the team could reportedly use the additional cap room to sign restricted free-agent Nerlens Noel to a long-term deal. Dallas could also use the cap space on a starting point guard, but currently have no plans to sign a marquee free agent, despite being reportedly linked to Jrue Holiday.
Nowitzki is coming off one of his worst statistical seasons as a pro, averaging 14.2 points, 6.5 rebounds, and 1.5 assists on 43.7 percent shooting.