Should the Mavericks Look into Andray Blatche?

The book on Andray Blatche has always been that he has NBA talent, but lacks maturity. Despite averaging over 11 points and 5 rebounds his last season with the Brooklyn Nets, those character concerns prevented him from landing a contract with an NBA franchise.

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Blatche instead played in China, where he just finished the season with averages of 31.1 points and 14.6 rebounds for the Xinjiang Flying Tigers. Now that his regular season has concluded, and the Flying Tigers have been eliminated from playoff contention, Blatche is a free agent and drawing interest from several NBA clubs.

[ESPN]

"Sources told ESPN.com that the Nets are among the teams tracking Blatche, who just became a free agent after his team in China failed to reach the Chinese Basketball Association playoffs.The Nets have one open roster spot and, according to sources, are on a list of Blatche suitors which also includes the Memphis Grizzlies. It remains to be seen, however, whether the Miami Heat will rekindle its longstanding interest in Blatche, given the recent emergence of big man Hassan Whiteside with the Heat."

Should the Dallas Mavericks enter the chase? The Mavericks have long been linked to free agent center Jermaine O’Neal, but with nothing set in stone Blatche might be worth looking in to. He has size (6’11”) and NBA experience, but also adds some youth to the roster at 28 years of age.

He’s not a great rim protector, but he’s a better defender than you’d think. He had 2.5 and 2.1 defensive win shares his final two years with the Nets.

Blatche certainly has had his issues. His conditioning and professionalism have been in question his whole career. But it’s possible that being forced to play overseas has humbled the big man. The Mavericks have need for him, and performing well for a contender would certainly help his reputation as a problem in the locker room.

It’s unclear what type of compensation Blatche is looking for, but if he’s willing to join a team for the veteran’s minimum he’s worth considering for the Dallas Mavericks.

Check out his highlights:

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