J.J. Barea to play professionally in Puerto Rico this summer

The Dallas Mavericks waived J.J. Barea during training camp in 2020 in a move that turned into a mistake. They needed his veteran presence and leadership as the Mavs looked to take another step forward. The legend lost his backup point guard role to Jalen Brunson, but he was basically another coach that could still log productive minutes.

Last season, Barea went on to play for Estudiantes in Spain before joining Cangrejeros de Santurce in the Puerto Rican league. He averaged 12.4 points, 5.1 assists, and 3.2 rebounds in 22.5 minutes per over 23 games in his native country. Barea is a pick and roll master that just keeps getting buckets.

Fans thought Barea was calling it a career as he re-joined the Mavericks in a part-time role. The 37-year-old wants to spend more time with his family, but he got the itch to play again, so Barea will be back on Cangrejeros de Santurce this summer. Here is a look at what to expect.

Dallas Mavericks legend J.J. Barea to play professionally in Puerto Rico this summer

Barea is an icon in Puerto Rico, and he could not pass up the chance to play one more season in his native country. The 5’10 guard was productive last season and the shorter schedule makes it more manageable for the veteran.

Expect another productive year from Barea as he hopes to lead his team to the playoffs. The veteran will run plenty of pick and rolls and keep their offense moving. Another 12-5-3 season is on the horizon for Barea.

J.J. Barea will continue to work for the Dallas Mavericks part-time, but expect him to re-join the team full-time in a few years. The legend wants to coach, and the Mavs want him to be part of their organization, so it seems like the perfect fit. For now, Barea will keep handing out buckets in Puerto Rico and working with the Mavs part-time.