Mavericks releasing J.J. Barea

The Dallas Mavericks entered training camp with one too many players on their roster, but that’s no longer an issue. Per ESPN’s Tim MacMahon, the Mavericks are releasing veteran guard J.J. Barea on Thursday. MacMahon’s sources indicated this was a move the Mavericks anticipated making in order to reward Barea for his contributions to the franchise.

Barea injured his Achilles tendon in January of 2019, causing concern for his career. Barea proved to be more resilient, signing a one year deal with Mavericks last summer and returning the following season, though in limited minutes. Rick Carlisle used his trusty point guard only when the offense was completely out of joint and the Mavericks were down significant points.

Undrafted out of Northeastern University, Barea first joined Dallas in 2006, but didn’t see significant playing time until Carlisle joined the franchise in 2008. Under Carlisle’s guidance, Barea became a spark plug off the bench and, eventually, a key piece on the Mavericks’ championship team in 2011. Barea left for Minnesota as a free agent that summer, but returned three years later. He’s been a mainstay on the roster ever since, and a master of Carlisle’s offense.

Barea is currently fifth in games played and eighth all-time in assists for the Mavericks. There’s been speculation that Barea would move onto the coaching staff once he retired, but MacMahon’s article indicates he plans to seek a spot on an NBA roster somewhere else if possible. Either way, it’s the end of an incredible career with Dallas.