One of the Mavericks' more popular players from a couple of years ago could be back with the team this fall.
According to league sources, the Mavs are trying to sign point guard Nick Van Exel, who was a vital part of the team's success when Dallas advanced to the 2003 Western Conference finals. Portland waived Van Exel on Wednesday, choosing not to retain him for the nonguaranteed money ($12.8 million) remaining on his contract for the upcoming season.
The Mavs also are discussing the possibility of signing potential free agent swingman Doug Christie, who might be released by Orlando through the league's new amnesty rule .
Mavs officials refused to comment on Van Exel, but a source said: "Obviously there's interest. We're looking for a backup third point guard, and he looks nice in a Mavs uniform.
"He's definitely a fit for what we're looking for. It's just a matter of him making a decision."
Van Exel, who turns 34 on Nov. 27, has narrowed his choices to the Mavs, Houston, San Antonio and Miami.