Mavs have officially signed David Lee

DALLAS – The Dallas Mavericks got their man Monday morning when they signed forward David Lee to a prorated cap room exception salary for the rest of the season for $2.1 million.

In order to make room for Lee, the Mavs waived guard John Jenkins.

Lee (6-9, 245) is an 11-year veteran who is expected to back up power forward Dirk Nowitzki, but can also fill in admirably as a backup at the center spot.

The Boston Celtics waived Lee last Friday after he averaged 7.1 points and 4.3 rebounds while playing just 15.7 minutes per contest in 30 games this season. The Celtics wanted to go younger, so Lee, who turns 33 in April, was shown the door.

However, since Lee is a valuable commodity who helped the Golden State Warriors win last year’s NBA title, the Mavs believe he can be an asset to their squad.

Coach Rick Carlisle said: "I just think he’s a quality veteran player whose been in a situation at Boston where they were overstocked and decided to go with younger guys, and we believe he can help us.’’

Lee joins the Mavs with career averages of 14.4 points and 9.2 rebounds per game.

"He’s a smart player -- obviously he’s a veteran who knows how to play,’’ Nowitzki said. "He can score around the basket, he’s a good passer out of the post, he drives, he rebounds, which sometimes we have issues with our rebounding, so he should help us there.

"I just think it’s another solid veteran that wants to win and knows how to play.’’

This story was originally published February 22, 2016 at 11:21 AM with the headline "Mavs have officially signed David Lee."