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Dallas Mavericks reportedly favorites to land free agent, Al Horford

By Kohl Rast

BOSTON, MASSACHUSETTS - MAY 06: Al Horford #42 of the Boston Celtics looks on during the second half of Game 4 of the Eastern Conference Semifinals during the 2019 NBA Playoffs at TD Garden on May 06, 2019 in Boston, Massachusetts. The Bucks defeat the Celtics 113-101. (Photo by Maddie Meyer/Getty Images)
BOSTON, MASSACHUSETTS - MAY 06: Al Horford #42 of the Boston Celtics looks on during the second half of Game 4 of the Eastern Conference Semifinals during the 2019 NBA Playoffs at TD Garden on May 06, 2019 in Boston, Massachusetts. The Bucks defeat the Celtics 113-101. (Photo by Maddie Meyer/Getty Images) /
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The Dallas Mavericks free agency plans are still mostly unclear, but it appears they have a new target on their radar, according to Kevin O’Connor of The Ringer.

According to Kevin O’Connor from The Ringer, the Dallas Mavericks are surfacing as the favorites to land free agent center, Al Horford as he prepares to part ways with the Boston Celtics. Horford has been with the Celtics for the past three seasons, earning one All-Star appearance and being the constant rock for a solid playoff team.

Discontent between the Celtics organization and some of their players began brewing just a few days ago and now it seems that both of the team’s biggest stars are headed for higher waters. This comes as a shock to most Celtics fans who thought they would be looking at a team led by Kyrie Irving and Anthony Davis next year.

The reason that the Mavericks are favored at this time over the two Los Angeles based teams (also mentioned in the rumor) is because they are considered top destinations for free agents like Kawhi Leonard, Kyrie Irving, Kemba Walker and others. To see the full rumor, click here.

This rumor hit really fast and most Mavs fans are probably wondering what to think about the idea right now. Here is one pro and one con to the potential pairing of Al Horford and the Mavs.

Pro

Horford is one of the best all-around bigs in the NBA and has been for several years. He can play in the post, he can shoot, he is a solid defender and a good rim protector. He is one of the smartest bigs in the game and plays the pick and roll very well. Those are a lot of pros all wrapped up in one short paragraph.

Con

The biggest issue with Horford is around his age and expected contract. He reportedly wants a four year deal that will land him in the ballpark of $100 million. That is a lot of money and years for a 33 year old player. He may be worth that with his skill set, but it will take some convincing for me.

Next. Why Mavs fans should be happy Dwight Powell opted in

The Dallas Mavericks free agency plans are still very unclear, but this rumor is definitely one to keep tabs on going forward.