Mavericks rule out Wesley Matthews for season opener

Despite his hopes to the contrary, Wesley Matthews' career with the Dallas Mavericks won't begin on opening night.

Head coach Rick Carlisle revealed at media day on Monday that Matthews will take a while longer rehabilitating the torn Achilles he suffered in March, and that he won't be ready for the team's season opener on Oct. 28. What's more, Carlisle identified Christmas as a potential return date, declining to provide a more specific timetable.

Carlisle admitted that Matthews probably wouldn't want to hear this news, as the shooting guard said in late August that he would be ready for opening night. Pointing to his own work ethic, iron man status, and the quality of the Mavs' medical staff, Matthews believed he could return less than 10 months after the surgery.

The history of players returning from Achilles tears is spotty at best, and the Mavericks are taking the long view here after signing Matthews to a four-year deal worth a reported $70 million.

Once healthy, the 28-year-old Matthews figures to start at the two for Dallas, providing floor spacing and perimeter defense. Devin Harris could stand to start in the interim, though training camp results could also dictate the Mavericks go to a bigger starting lineup in Matthews' stead.

Undrafted out of Marquette, Matthews has worked his way from NBA afterthought to max-contract player. Over the past five seasons, he's averaged 15.4 points, 3.3 rebounds, 2.2 assists, and 1.2 steals, knocking down 39.4 percent of his 3-point attempts and establishing himself as a stopper on the wings.