Chandler Parsons (Photo : NBAE via Getty Images)
More news about the free agents came out and some of the teams may see their star players walk away.
That sight is nothing new for the Dallas Mavericks even as they continue to pursue big name free agents.
The latest news is that they are targeting Hassan Whiteside and Mike Conley-arguably the top center and top point guard of this year's free agent class. The caveat is that they don't have the cap space for two max players and they want one of their incumbent stars to make the sacrifice.
According to Tim McMahon of ESPN, the Mavericks are willing to risk losing Parsons rather than pay him the max just to stay.
"Dallas is willing to take the risk of Parsons committing to another team as the Mavs pursue Conley and Whiteside, who sources say have mutual interest in the team. The Mavs expect to open free agency by meeting with Whiteside."
McMahon mentioned that the Mavericks would like to keep Parsons if they strike out on the two prime free agents they are chasing. "However, the Mavs have made it clear to Parsons that they do not intend to offer him a max contract to keep him after his first two seasons in Dallas ended prematurely because of surgeries on his right knee."
This is quite damaging for Parsons because no team is more knowledgeable about his injury history than the Dallas Mavericks themselves. If they don't feel like he's worth the risk, then it could be seen as a red flag by other teams.
However, that does not deter other teams from taking interest in him. According to Mike Leslie of WFAA of the ABC network, Parsons has his suitors.
"Parsons will be pursued by the Orlando Magic, the Los Angeles Clippers, and the Los Angeles Lakers, the source says, once free agency opens up on July 1st."
The Orlando Magic is banking on the hometown factor as Parsons is from Florida. Also, the team recently traded for Serge Ibaka. A tandem of Parsons and Ibaka would be a good offense-defense combo.
The Magic are also pursuing top free agents but Parsons is a more realistic target. If the Mavs hesitate on a decision, Parsons could go.
