Lack of production off the bench by Danny Manning and another injury to guard Greg Buckner prompted the Mavericks to sign unemployed free-agent forward Johnny Newman. The 16-year veteran is 38, but played in 82 games for the Nets last season.

Manning averaged 5.1 points and 3.6 rebounds in his first 12 games, and the Mavericks were expecting more when they signed him to a free agent contract over the summer. Newman was working out at home in Richmond, Va., when the Mavericks called.

Guard Tim Hardaway's production as the first guard off the bench was also below expectations until he perked up with a 16-point six-assist effort in a home loss to Sacramento. To make room for Newman, the Mavericks waived center Ruben Wolkowyski, who had spent all season on the injured list.