Dallas Mavericks: J.J. Barea drops 14 in debut for Estudiantes

The Dallas Mavericks waived J.J. Barea during training camp. They fully guaranteed his salary but were looking to get younger and improve their defense. Barea slipped out of the rotation last season, but he showed flashes when given the opportunity. He also was an important leader for Dallas. The Mavericks legend was determined to keep playing and go out on his terms.

Barea could not find an NBA opportunity, so he signed with Estudiantes in Spain. He is hoping to use it as a springboard back to the league.

Barea played his first game in Spain on Wednesday. The Mavs legend earned a start and put on a show. Let us take a closer look at his first contest with his new club.

Dallas Mavericks legend J.J. Barea scores 14 in debut for Estudiantes

It did not take Barea long to get his first bucket with his new team. He showed off his pick and roll mastery to get into the paint and nail a jumper.

The legend was far from done. He got inside and nailed another mid-range J in the second quarter.

Barea finished with 14 points and three assists in 25 minutes of action against Zaragoza on Feb. 3. He nailed two 3-pointers but struggled with his shot. Barea finished just five of 17 from the field. It will take him some time to get back in rhythm, but it was a solid first step back for the 35-year-old point guard. Expect him to dominate in the pick and roll and continue getting buckets on his new team.

J.J. Barea needs to put up strong numbers and prove he is healthy to return to the NBA. Hopefully, the Mavericks legend and 2011 NBA champion gets another shot in the league. Keep an eye on his play in Spain. Barea continues to put on a show, which should make Dallas Mavericks fans happy. Stay tuned.