Candidates for the Dallas Mavericks Hardship Exception

We finally have some clarification on the Mavericks current roster situation, with the announcement today that Jalen Brunson, Josh Richardson, Dorian Finny-Smith, Maxi Kleber and Dwight Powell are out due to Health and Safety Protocols. Per ESPN’s Bobby Marks, Dallas is now eligible for a Hardship Exception.

Let’s take a look at some of the candidates to temporarily join the roster and save the day.

JJ Barea

This one is just too obvious. Many people, myself included, were hoping he’d stick around as an assistant coach after getting cut in training camp, but Barea made it clear he wanted to keep playing, either in the NBA or overseas. While he’s not what he used to be, we saw last year that he can still be productive in short bursts, and in a time of so much uncertainty it would be comforting to see him back in Dallas. Cue Donnie Nelson sprinting through the airport to stop JJ from getting on a plane to Europe. Like this:

Courtney Lee

See above. Another savvy veteran who is beloved in the locker room and can still play solid basketball for a short amount of time.

Dirk Nowitzki

After Barea, this is probably the name I saw mentioned the most on Twitter once this was announced, but it’s obviously not realistic. I know you miss him. We all miss him. But leave the man alone. He carried us for so long. Let him rest.

Tony Romo

This Mavericks legend should be coming to the end of his own quarantine period, so there should be no problem with him suiting back up with his old team for one last shot at glory.

Roddy Beaubois

I still believe in him. He’s gonna be a star for us, it’s just a matter of time.

LiAngelo Ball

At the least maybe he could talk to his brother a lot during the game tomorrow night and distract him.

Eric Bienemy

Every NFL team is trying to interview this guy for their head coaching vacancy, so I think the Mavericks should at least give him a quick look and see what he has to offer.

Daniel Day-Lewis

Just an incredible actor. Maybe the best ever. He’s retired now, so I’m sure he could use something to do. Sign him and have him give a method acting performance as a good basketball player.

Clint Carroll

Yes the rumors are true, I’m being considered for a spot on the Mavericks. Donnie and Cuban have never been afraid to think outside the box, so they’ve looked into adding an overweight 38 year old who hasn’t played organized basketball since he was 10 years old. They were blown away by the blue ribbon I won in free throw shooting at my school’s Field Day in 4th grade. If I’m chosen, I can guarantee I’ll give it my all. At least until I get winded, which will be right after I finish tying my shoes.

Who should it be? They likely will sign someone.