The Dallas Mavericks will sit down with free agent Deron Williams on Monday but their efforts could be dealt a significant blow if Dwight Howard successfully forces his way to Brooklyn via trade.

Howard reportedly requested a trade to Brooklyn while in a meeting with new Magic GM Rob Hennigan on Friday. The Nets had also reportedly been discussing contingency plans to strengthen their roster to convince Williams to stay if they couldn't land Howard.

Rumors surfaced on Saturday that had the Nets discussing separate deals with the Rockets and Hawks involving Luis Scola and Joe Johnson. Those deals would likely be put well on the back burner if the Dwight Howard rumors crank up again. Dallas could have a very difficult time prying Williams away from Brooklyn should the Nets acquire Howard.

For all the latest news and notes on the Mavericks free agency plans, stay tuned to the SB Nation Dallas story-stream as well as Mavs Moneyball.