Tim Hardaway Jr. says his ‘goal’ is to be a Maverick next season, per 105.3 The Fan

Tim Hardaway Jr. was one of the most important players on the Mavericks last season. His 204 three-point field goals made during the season were the second-most in franchise history. Unfortunately, last year was also the last guaranteed season on his contract.

Next season, Hardaway Jr. has a player option worth $18,975,000. The starting shooting guard has been nearly silent about his future — until Friday.

Here’s what he said Friday morning regarding the decision when he was on air with 105.3 The Fan:

“The goal for me, yes, is to return as a Dallas Maverick. That’s the goal. Everybody knows how much I love Dallas. How much I want to be apart of the organization. How much I’ve built those relationships with those guys and people around the community. Yes that is the plan.”

That should be music to the ears of Mavericks fans. With the league’s cap space undoubtedly taking a hit next season, it makes sense that Hardaway Jr. would likely accept his nearly 19 million dollars in guaranteed money. He still could opt-out and try to resign in Dallas long term, but I imagine that would cost him a lot of money.

Hardaway Jr. would have likely been one of the most desired free agents in a relatively weak class. His departure also would have left the Mavericks very thin on the wing. Hopefully we won’t have to worry about that now.

“And hopefully the plan goes accordingly. I just have to talk to my agent and let him figure it all out. We will have that answer when the time comes, but you guys know where my heart is at,” Hardaway Jr. said.