No position has a more complicated history for the Dallas Mavericks than center. In past decades, the most beloved centers rarely stuck around while the long-term options got maligned. Recently, the team has repeatedly brought in one-year stopgaps, and even this year could be seen as the same. DeAndre Jordan should be the most stable player at the position since 2011, but even he comes with baggage and could depart after this year.



Dallas, of course, wanted Jordan three summers ago. They and their verbal agreement were spurned unceremoniously, but those around the team unanimously say that’s no longer an issue. They’re right; it isn’t. What Jordan did in 2015 may not be celebrated, but no one employed by the Mavericks cares about that anymore. At this point, it’s just an amusing side note.



As mentioned, Jordan’s stay here could be brief. He’s 30 years old and coming off his worst season since emerging as a full-time starter,...