David Lee is headed to Dallas.
The veteran power forward, whose contract was bought out by the Boston Celtics on Friday, cleared waivers and agreed to a prorated deal with the Mavericks. The contract is worth $2.1 million, and Lee officially will be a member of the Mavericks on Monday.
Coach Rick Carlisle confirmed the news Sunday after the Mavericks’ win over the Philadelphia 76ers.
“We think he can play both big positions, some 4 and some backup 5,” Carlisle said, per ESPN.com’s Tim McMahon. “I just think he’s a quality veteran player who has been in a situation in Boston where they were overstocked and decided to go with some younger guys. We believe he can help us.”
Lee also received some praise from Mavericks star Dirk Nowitzki.
“He’s a smart player,” Nowitzki said, per McMahon. “He knows how to play. He can score around the basket, he’s a good passer out of the post, he’s a good rebounder, which sometimes we have issues with our rebounding, so he should help us there. I just think it’s another solid veteran that wants to win.”
Lee averaged 15.7 minutes, 7.1 points and 4.3 rebounds in 30 games with the Celtics this season. The Mavs will waive reserve guard John Jenkins to make roster room for Lee.
Thumbnail photo via Mark L. Baer/USA TODAY Sports Images
