I really did not see this coming.
The five-year extension, which begins after this season, locks Harris up through 2012-13. Harris has played in a key role in the Mavericks reaching the 2005 NBA Finals and finishing with the NBA's best record last season.
"Devin is a vital part of our core and has played a key role in our success," Mavericks president of basketball operations Donnie Nelson said. "We are excited about his future in a Mavericks uniform."
"Devin is a vital part of our core and has played a key role in our success," Mavericks president of basketball operations Donnie Nelson said. "We are excited about his future in a Mavericks uniform."
Mavericks coach Avery Johnson has referred to Harris as his starting point guard and Harris is approaching the season with the same expectation. That doesn't mean Harris is taking starting for granted.
"Nothing is given," Harris said. "You have to come into camp ready to work hard. I don't want anything to be given to me. I have that mindset and hopefully this will be the year for me."
Harris is no stranger to the first team, having started 61 times last year. "I want that full 82," he said.
Obviously great news (unless the contract is crazy)! More later, discuss...
"Nothing is given," Harris said. "You have to come into camp ready to work hard. I don't want anything to be given to me. I have that mindset and hopefully this will be the year for me."
Harris is no stranger to the first team, having started 61 times last year. "I want that full 82," he said.