Report: Mavericks Sign Wake Forest’s Al-Farouq Aminu

CSN Northwest reports that the Dallas Mavericks have signed Wake Forest product Al-Farouq Aminu to a two year, $2.1 million contract. The second year is a player option so Aminu could opt out if he exceeds expectations. Aminu last played for the New Orleans Pelicans and averaged 7 pts and 6 reb in 25 min per game.

May 4, 2014; San Antonio, TX, USA; Dallas Mavericks forward Dirk Nowitzki (41) reacts against the San Antonio Spurs in game seven of the first round of the 2014 NBA Playoffs at AT&T Center. Mandatory Credit: Brendan Maloney-USA TODAY Sports

The Mavericks have acquired center Tyson Chandler and forward Chandler Parsons (making Tyson Chandler Parsons a thing) earlier this free agency period to try to make one more run with forward Dirk Nowitzki. However they were still looking at bench depth and guard Vince Carter signed with the Grizzlies after they made their move on Parsons. Forward Shawn Marion is also sitting out there unsigned.

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The Mavericks attempted to buy some insurance by acquiring forward Rashard Lewis, but the 6’10” free agent was found to have knee damage and the Mavericks immediately waived him. So now Dallas has gone out and signed Aminu to serve a similar purpose.

What Aminu will mean for Dallas will be based on what happens to Marion. Aminu is a gifted athlete with freakish arm length who had trouble finding an offensive role in New Orleans. However his physical tools have made him a capable wing defender. Thus, if Dallas can’t bring back Marion, Aminu could be called upon to do what Marion did and do it cheaper.

Aminu has also displayed a strong work ethic and willingness to improve. He is also only twenty-three years old and could have a lot of basketball in front of him. His new teammates in Dallas will include former North Carolina Tar Heels Raymond Felton and Brandan Wright.