The Smoking Cuban
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Dallas Mavericks: An Open Letter to Nerlens Noel

By Kohl Rast

SACRAMENTO, CA - APRIL 4: Nerlens Noel #3 of the Dallas Mavericks looks on during the game against the Sacramento Kings on April 4, 2017 at Golden 1 Center in Sacramento, California. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images Agreement. Mandatory Copyright Notice: Copyright 2017 NBAE (Photo by Rocky Widner/NBAE via Getty Images)
SACRAMENTO, CA - APRIL 4: Nerlens Noel #3 of the Dallas Mavericks looks on during the game against the Sacramento Kings on April 4, 2017 at Golden 1 Center in Sacramento, California. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images Agreement. Mandatory Copyright Notice: Copyright 2017 NBAE (Photo by Rocky Widner/NBAE via Getty Images) /
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It has been almost a month since free agency began and still no word on whether or not the Dallas Mavericks and Nerlens Noel are making progress on a deal. So it’s time the fan base talks to him.

Dear Mr. Noel,

I hate to start this letter so formal and unfamiliar, but at this point, it seems necessary. But, let’s take note that even though I am older than you, I still give you the respect I feel you deserve. This is basketball, this is business, and this is important to you and to me.

Now that we have that out of the way, it’s time to state the obvious: you need to be a Dallas Maverick.

I know you feel entitled to the money that you want, but it’s hard to agree with you when “potential” is still a word brought up about you regularly. When that is the case, I admit it’s tough to really consider someone a max contract player. We believe you are one in a million, just maybe not one in 143 million.

Really, you just need to look at all the good things that would come out of signing with the Mavericks.

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Reason #1: You get to play with Dirk Nowitzki in his waning years. Once retired, you will get to step in as a major focal point of this team.

Reason #2: There’s no income tax in Texas. You get every penny we owe you.

Reason #3: We all know that Mark Cuban takes care of his players way beyond just salary compensation. You will be treated like royalty here.

Reason #4: The fans love you. There is still no shortage of hope that you will be with the Mavericks where we can watch you catch lobs from Dennis Smith Jr., Devin Harris, JJ Barea, etc.

Reason #5: Speaking of DSJ, you have to see that this young core is so much better with you in it. This Dallas Mavericks team is going to be the real deal in a few years as long as everyone keeps growing together. Yourself included.

I understand that you want the money and feel that you deserve it, I really do. But, at this point, it doesn’t seem like that money is a realistic endeavor. Why not cut your losses, sign a 3 or 4 year deal, and then when you are a star in the league, it’ll be time to earn the big bucks. This is not meant to be disrespectful for you, it can just be added motivation to be the best.

Next: Dallas Mavericks: Lets Say Thanks to the Knicks

In conclusion, you can’t go wrong with the Mavericks. A great organization with a great owner, coach, GM, and staff just waiting to give you the things you need to be the best basketball player you can. In my eyes, the decision is simple, and Dallas will reward you next time it’s time to sign a contract. You won’t be sorry.

Sincerely, An optimistic MFFL