The Mavericks have waived Dwight Powell, parting with their longest-tenured player to reach the regular-season roster limit, the team announced Monday.
Powell spent 12 seasons in Dallas after arriving in a 2014 trade. He returned on a minimum-salary contract shortly before training camp, but the Mavericks ultimately chose to keep their younger options and release the veteran center.
“Dwight was the consummate professional throughout his 12 seasons with the Mavericks and embodies everything you want in someone representing your organization,” team president Masai Ujiri said in a statement. “He’s a tireless worker, an incredible teammate and someone whose impact extends well beyond the basketball court and into the Dallas community.”
Powell’s contract included a $1 million guarantee that would have increased to $1.5 million had he made the opening-night roster. Dallas needed one more cut after waiving Seth Lundy and John Poulakidas.
Moussa Cisse was among the other potential candidates, but the Mavericks elected to retain the 24-year-old center. Marc Stein of The Stein Line reported Sunday that several teams were interested in claiming Cisse if Dallas released him.
The Mavericks had matched Cisse’s offer sheet from the Knicks earlier in the offseason. His $2.2 million salary is fully guaranteed.
Powell averaged 3.3 points, 4.1 rebounds and 1.1 assists in 63 games last season, including 12 starts. He appeared in three preseason games this month and earned praise from new coach Dusty May.
“Dwight has been very valuable so far to us,” May said, per Grant Afseth of Dallas Sports Journal. “I think it’s evident that when he is on the floor, we function well. It’s been a joy to get to know him and be around him.”
Powell will become an unrestricted free agent Wednesday if he clears waivers. The Mavericks now have 15 players on standard contracts and two on two-way deals.
“He will always be part of the Mavericks family, and Dallas will always be a home for him,” Ujiri said.
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