Dallas Mavericks rumors: Shawn Marion doesn’t want to be backup?

The Dallas Mavericks have previously stated that they feel ‘optimistic’ about re-signing free agent Shawn Marion, though for now the two sides have yet to find middle ground on a deal. That’s not exactly shocking considering the Mavericks are attempting to sign younger, more talented players though it’s possible such a move could cost them re-signing Marion.

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We already know the Dallas Mavericks have extended a contract to Chandler Parsons and if that doesn’t work out, it’s possible Dallas could attempt to sign Lance Stephenson as well. But such a move could potentially be at the cost of Shawn Marion who Tim MacMahon of ESPN says isn’t thrilled with the idea of being a backup, even if the Mavericks could afford to sign Parsons or Stephenson and The Matrix.

While Marion is still a talented and very servicable player, there’s little reason for the Dallas Mavericks not to chase either Parsons or Stephenson considering both are better players and much younger. That’s noting against Shawn Marion, but if he doesn’t want to be a backup simply because the team adds a better player at his position, that’s not on the Mavericks.

In a perfect world the Dallas Mavericks would be able to net one of their desired forwards and re-sign Shawn Marion to play a reduced, though still important role off the bench. But if he’s not willing to do that, your next best option is to move on.

If Dallas is to seriously compete in the Western Conference this year, they’ll need an upgrade to Marion.