With the start of NBA free agency expected to begin on Friday, the Dallas Mavericks chances of bringing back a majority of the free agents from last season's championship team are looking increasingly slim.
Caron Butler, who started 29 games for Dallas last season before tearing his knee, has been widely courted. He came away impressed with his latest suitor, the Mavericks' long-time division rival San Antonio:
realtuffjuice Caron ButlerJust met with Spurs great visit first class all the way....
While Butler's experience, shot-making ability and leadership qualities are valued throughout the NBA, his value on the open market is still uncertain.
Dallas would like to bring the two-time All-Star back, but they are unlikely to offer him a multi-year deal that would eat into their 2012 cap space, especially since they also have to consider whether they will match the lucrative offers that Tyson Chandler and J.J. Barea are expected to get.