For the past couple of days, rumors that Dallas Mavericks swingman Michael Finley will be released have heaten up and now it appears very likely to happen when the CBA is finalized in June.

According to a team source, Finley's release is "academic" due to the financial incentives.

"Whatever decisions [we make] will be made in the best interest of the franchise," Mavs coach Avery Johnson said Sunday. "That's pretty much what we promised our players and our fans. The part of the business of losing anyone on our team isn't a good feeling, especially Finley."

If the Mavericks waive Finley, they would save $51.8 million in luxury tax payments.