Marc Stein of the Dallas Morning News reports that Seattle free agent Rashard Lewis is going to talk to the Dallas Mavericks on Thursday. Lewis is seeking a 7-year deal worth $80-90 million dollars. The Sonics are reluctant to dedicate that much money to a player with the looming luxury tax and are offering a package worth $50-55 million.

It is not known if the Mavericks have a legitimate chance at signing Lewis. The most they can offer is their $4.45 million mid-class exception, which would total $15 million for 3 years.

"Rashard would add a lot to our team," Mavs owner Mark Cuban said. "Obviously having him at small forward and forcing a power forward to guard Dirk [Nowitzki] would be great for us. I don't know if we have a great chance, but when you come down to it, Rashard is the type that wants a chance to win a ring."

If Lewis really does intend to sign elsewhere, the Rockets will probably be considered as well. They also have their mid-class exception and they have the distinct advantage of being Lewis? hometown. Lewis has said repeatedly that he would love a Rockets homecoming if he doesn't return to Seattle.