Greg Buckner won't be back in Dallas for long

Published July 9, 2009 at 7:46 p.m.

Greg Buckner, the guard returning to Dallas via Memphis in this four-team deal, won't be on the Mavericks' roster next season.

Acquiring Buckner, however, could help the Mavs further improve the roster. Because of his contract situation, Buckner has value as a trade asset in the strange salary cap world of an economically challenged NBA.

Buckner's salary of a little more than $4 million for the 2009-10 season is only partially guaranteed. He can be bought out for $1 million, which is almost certain to happen.

As was the case with Jerry Stackhouse's buyout, the question is which team will write the check. The Mavs will continue to explore ways to acquire talent from teams looking to cut costs.

If they can't find a trade fit for Buckner's buyout, the million bucks will come out of Mark Cuban's pocket.

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