As my internet pal Trey Kerby points out here, since Jason Kidd played better in New Jersey and Phoenix, it was and is more likely he’d get his digits in the rafters elsewhere. But, yes, Mark Cuban did go on the record as saying he’s not doing that here, and it all stems from the way J-Kidd left town this summer.
Which brings us to my favorite pointless sports debate: which current/recent Mavs will get their numbers retired? Dirk Nowitzki’s No. 41 is a no-brainer. Other than that? I’d argue that, despite his new ridiculous Celtics tattoo (total JET move), Jason Terry’s No. 31 has a decent shot. (I mean, 31 will always mean swagger aficionado Nick Van Exel to me, but I doubt that’s getting it done.) And maybe Michael Finley’s No. 4 at some point, since he’s back with the team in some capacity. (The championship with San Antonio might have scotched that idea permanently, but I think the Mavs having a banner puts it back on the table, but, like, right at the edge, kind of teetering, sort of making the host uncomfortably eye it.) Really, that’s probably it. Everyone else is known better elsewhere or wasn’t here long enough or whatever.
As for Mavs from the past, I renew my request for Mark Aguirre’s No. 24, Derek Harper’s No. 12, and [JIM SPANARKEL JOKE GOES HERE].
