Veteran forward Rashard Lewis was waived by the Dallas Mavericks after the team discovered he needs surgery on his right knee.
The Mavericks signed Lewis to the veteran’s minimum on July 16, but decided to waive him upon the results of his physical. “We wish him all the best for a speedy recovery and continued success in his remarkable career” said Mavericks President Donnie Nelson, according to Yahoo Sports.
Lewis, 34, started in eight games for the Heat during the playoffs this season, averaging 5.2 points and 2.1 rebounds per game. However, Lewis has not been able to stay healthy for a substantial part of a season since 2010-2011, when he appeared in 57 games.
Last year the Mavericks cut point guard Devin Harris after not liking the results of a physical, but quickly resigned him. However, judging from the Maverick’s statement, it does not appear he will ever get a chance to play for them.
Lewis is a two-time all-star, and was instrumental in the Orlando Magic’s Eastern Conference championship back in 2009.
If Lewis’s knee injury is not too serious, another team will likely take a chance on him. Teams are growing ever more dependent on three-point shooting, and Lewis is a former champion who can stroke it from beyond the arc.
According to The Washington Post, Lewis was to be the backup for former league and finals MVP, Dirk Nowitzki.