Chandler knows Mavs have to handle business during free agency

FRISCO – Tyson Chandler is fully aware why the Dallas Mavericks must pursue all options in regards to free agency.

Even if that means the Mavs have to put Chandler on the backburner while they pursue those other options.

"Business is business – I get it,’’ Chandler said Saturday night. "They need to make the best decision for the franchise.

"I still feel like I've got a lot to go, a lot left to give. At the end of the day, I feel like I make the best decision for myself and my family and (owner) Mark (Cuban) makes the best decision for the organization.’’

Chandler averaged 10.3 points and 11.5 rebounds per game this past season, and was again the emotional and on-court leader for the Mavs. But the Mavs are reportedly hot on the Los Angeles Clippers free agent center DeAndre Jordan and Memphis Grizzlies center Marc Gasol, even though they own center – Chandler – is also a free agent.

However, Milwaukee Bucks coach Jason Kidd has reportedly shown Chandler a lot of love. Kidd and Chandler were teammates when the Mavs captured the 2011 NBA title, and the Bucks have made Chandler one of their top free agent priorities.

"That's pretty interesting,’’ Chandler said prior to the Dirk Nowitzki Heroes Celebrity Baseball Game at Dr Pepper Ballpark. "I didn't see that coming.

"But obviously it's a huge honor, because I spent two years on the (same team with Kidd), and that they want to pursue me means he thinks highly of me.

"He’s a future Hall of Famer, and that's humbling.’’

Wherever he lands during free agency, Chandler would prefer for the decision to happen quickly.

"I'm not a free agent guy,’’ Chandler said. "You know, I just like to get things over with as soon as possible.’’

But Chandler has to use the balancing act of weighing between trying to receive his market value with also making sure he winds up with a team that can contend for an NBA team.

"It all has to be right, it all has to feel right,’’ Chandler said. "Honestly, that’s what it comes down to.

"I’ll see what’s out there. After that I’ll make the best decision for myself and my family.’’

This story was originally published June 27, 2015 at 10:47 PM with the headline "Chandler knows Mavs have to handle business during free agency."