Dallas Mavericks: J.J. Barea makes wise decision to sit out of World Cup

Dallas Mavericks point guard J.J. Barea decided to sit out of the 2019 FIBA World Cup. That is a wise choice by the Mavs legend.

Dallas Mavericks fans adore J.J. Barea. His ability to carve up a defense is magical. Barea has accomplished a lot in a Mavs uniform too.

That is why Jan. 11 was a devastating night for Mavericks supporters. Barea suffered a torn Achilles. The injury ended his season and is still casting doubts on his NBA career moving forward. Barea is committing to coming back healthy and proving he remains a force.

The rehab has been going well. Reports surfaced back in June that Barea was hoping to suit up for his native Puerto Rico at the 2019 FIBA World Cup. He would have been taking a massive gamble in playing.

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Barea determined that was not the best course of action. Here is Tim MacMahon with the latest.

Barea told ESPN that this was an extremely difficult decision due to how much pride he takes in representing Puerto Rico. He’s still trying to help his national team in the World Cup by recruiting pro players with Puerto Rican roots.
— Tim MacMahon (@espn_macmahon) July 20, 2019

Wise move

The tournament begins with group play on Aug. 31. Coming back from an Achilles tear and surgery is difficult. Rushing back too soon would put an athlete at increased risk of re-injury. That could effectively end a player’s career.

Barea is smart to take more time to continue healing his injury. Playing for his country is important to him, and it is sad that J.J. will miss out on that opportunity. Barea needs to get back to 100 percent, though.

The reports about his recovery are positive, though. The 35-year-old will be entering his 14th NBA season. Barea agreed to a new one-year contract with the Mavericks this offseason. Being fully healthy should remain the top priority.

Rotation fit?

It will be interesting to see how Barea fits into the rotation this season. The Mavs added Delon Wright and Seth Curry that will be playing minutes in the backcourt. Jalen Brunson is also hoping for an increased role in his second year. Could Barea be out of the rotation? It is possible.

Barea needs to focus on his recovery. Mavs fans know he can be a problem with the ball in his hands when fully healthy. Hopefully, that greatness is on display during the 2019-2020 season.

Next. How Kristaps Porzingis can be an All-Star in 2020

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