Report: If Mavericks miss out on Carmelo, they will pursue Luol Deng and Chandler Parsons

Tap here to access our NBA Tracker, which includes offseason rumors, trades and signings.

With so many teams going after unrestricted free-agent forward Carmelo Anthony, it just makes sense to have a back-up plan. 

Plan B for the Dallas Mavericks reportedly involves a pair of small forwards.

The Mavericks' interest in Luol Deng is nothing new, and it makes sense from the perspective of roster construction. Deng is a multi-skilled forward capable of guarding positions one-through-four. He is also a talented offensive player who can occasionally run an offense. Deng averaged 16.4 points, 5.9 rebounds and three assists per game last season.

But Houston Rockets restricted free-agent Chandler Parsons is a new name in the mix. The 25-year-old small forward is a restricted free-agent, and the Rockets can match any offers lofted his way. He averaged 16.6 points, 5.5 rebounds and four assists per game, and profiles as a strong perimeter defender with the ability to reliably can open jumpers.

However, the gambit for Houston is this: if Parsons signs an offer, Houston's cap room - which is currently pegged for point guard Kyle Lowry or Anthony himself - would disappear if they match. The Rockets are betting that they can land a free-agent first, before turning back and signing Parsons using his Bird Rights. A reversal of the order would crimp their plans.