Rajon Rondo has been rejuvenated with the Dallas Mavericks, playing for a contender and a contract.

Danny Ainge agreed Rondo will be motivated to prove that he is worth a maximum level contract. The Boston Celtics traded Rondo to the Mavericks this season.

"This second half of the year is a very big one for Rajon,'' Ainge said. "Dallas is getting a player who is very motivated to prove he's a max guy.''