In 2015, All-Star center DeAndre Jordan agreed to join the Dallas Mavericks as a free agent but suddenly had a change of heat. Instead, Jordan opted to remain with the Los Angeles Clippers, signing a four-year contract worth $87 million.
Jordan has until Friday to decide on whether to exercise the fourth-year player option from that contract worth $24.1 million. If Jordan decides to exercise that option, it will open up a possible trade to the Mavericks. Even if he opts out, Jordan could also join the Mavericks as an unrestricted free agent.
Marc Stein of the New York Times reports that the Mavericks and the Clippers are talking about a possible trade involving Jordan. Also, the Clippers have given the 6-foot-11 center and his agent a chance to explore other trade options.
Jordan Committed To Join Mavericks
When he became a free agent in 2015, Jordan gave a verbal commitment to the Mavericks that he will sign with the team. After receiving the news, a Clippers delegation, including team owner Steve Ballmer, coach Doc Rivers, then-teammates Chris Paul and Blake Griffin, trooped to Jordan's house and met with the center.
The meeting was aimed at convincing Jordan to stay with the Clippers and prevent the Mavericks from following up on his earlier commitment. During the meeting, Jordan changed his mind and agreed to sign a new deal with the Clippers. To ensure that Jordan will not have another change of heart, the contingent stayed until the center put his signature on the new contract.
Mavericks Owner Moved On From 2015 Incident
Jordan's decision did not sit well with Mavericks team owner Mark Cuban, who launched several last-minute attempts to reach the center and arrange a meeting. The incident forced Jordan to issue a public apology to Cuban, the Mavericks, and their fans.
"I want to publicly apologize to one of the best owners in the world Mark Cuban, the Dallas Mavericks and their fans," Jordan tweets. The center added that he was humbled by the kindness and understanding extended by the Mavericks and Cuban.
Cuban did not accept the apology, saying that Jordan did not write it himself. However, Bleacher Report claimed Cuban has moved on from that fiasco and wants Jordan to join the team.
Jordan became expendable after the Clippers shipped point guard Austin Rivers to the Washington Wizards for big man Marcin Gortat. Last season, Jordan averaged 12 points, 15.2 rebounds, and 0.9 blocks in 77 games.
Photo: Keith Allison | Flickr
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