In Dallas for a Monday practice ahead of a game against the Mavericks, Deron Williams was asked his thoughts on playing at the American Airlines Center.

“I always like playing here,” Williams said. “It’s probably my favorite (arena) to play in. I just enjoy playing here — I enjoy playing in front of my friends, family. It’s always good they get the chance to come and see me play.”

Avery Johnson acknowledged that the Mavericks could sign Williams.

“For me personally, working for Mark Cuban, he’s a threat, okay?” said Johnson. “I know the guy. So I think because of the success he’s had — and I know he got criticized a lot for ... all those years where he didn’t win a championship — but he’s had some really great success here that rivals any situation. So that’s a threat. And for us, we don’t make any assumptions until we get Deron signed on the dotted line.

“So the main thing is, we keep doing what we’re doing, Deron’s been a major part of what we’re doing behind the scenes,” Johnson said. “He’s been a major part of what we’re doing with the new Barclays Center. So we’re saying he’s doing all of that with the intent that he’s going to remain with us in the future.”

Asked about his future Monday, Williams delivered what has become his standard response: “You know, I’m just trying to play out the season and look at my options after the season.”

Williams was also asked if he prefers the idea of being in his hometown or the arena itself.

“Home,” he said. “(And) I just like the arena. I think it’s a good shooting background. I just enjoy playing here. Fans — the fans are great. It’s always good when arenas have a lot of energy. Ours (the Prudential Center) doesn’t have too much energy.”