Sources say that on Wednesday the Dallas Mavericks were close to reaching an agreement in principle with free agent center Samuel Dalembert.
The Dallas Morning News is has reported that Dalembert, 32, will be the starter, and the Mavericks probably will have at least one backup in Brandan Wright, who is expected to agree to terms after Dalembert is signed.
The 6-11 center has proved to be a solid rebounder throughout his career. He has career averages of 8.1 rebounds per game and 8.0 points per game in 11 NBA seasons.
As their search for a valuable big man continues, as it stands now the Mavericks starting lineup would feature Dalembert, Dirk Nowitzki and Shawn Marion on the front line with Monta Ellis and Jose Calderon in the backcourt.
It is expected that the Mavericks end their pursuit of Greg Oden, who is currently being sought about by various teams that include the San Antonio Spurs and NBA champion Miami Heat.
Oden was the top overall pick in the 2007 NBA draft out of Ohio State and has battled numerous knee injuries and hasn't played in the NBA since Dec. 5, 2009. He is coming off his third microfracture knee surgery in February 2012.
Oden has averaged 9.4 points, 7.3 rebounds and 1.4 blocks in 82 career games and has been working out in both Columbus and Indianapolis this past offseason.
The Cleveland Cavaliers were also rumored to be in contention, but after the signing of Andrew Bynum removed the Cavs from the list of contenders for his services. San Antonio and Miami are widely regarded as the two favorites, but Dallas continues to pursue Oden with intent while also negotiating with Milwaukee Bucks free-agent big man Samuel Dalembert.
Heat president Pat Riley recently told local reporters that he's already extended an exchange with Oden.
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