The Dallas Mavericks have a full 15 guaranteed contracts, but they're bringing veteran center D.J. Mbenga to training camp, according to team sources.
Despite the Mavericks' current lack of roster room, they are interested in adding one more center for depth even after the offseason acquisitions of Chris Kaman and Elton Brand.
The Mavericks have also been linked with Brazilian center Rafael Hettsheimeir, who plays in Spain, but they know Mbenga well after finding him in Belgium and bringing the 7-footer to the NBA during the 2004-05 season.
RTBF in Belgium reported that Mbenga turned down contract offers in China and Greece for the opportunity to try to convince the Mavs to shed one of their guaranteed contracts to make room for him.
Mbenga, 32, last played in the NBA with New Orleans in 2010-11 and was part of two championship teams with the Los Angeles Lakers after leaving Dallas.
If Mbenga fails to make the Mavs' roster, his D-League rights will be held by the Texas Legends and make him eligible to play for former teammate Eduardo Najera, who was named last month as the Legends' new coach.
