I have to hand it to the Dallas Mavericks. They didn't sit and wait to see what happened this off-season. They took matters into their own hands and that's why you have to love Mark Cuban. He cares and WANTS to win. Maybe some other owners should take note of that.

Now, re-signing Jason Kidd and trading for Shawn Marion are great. However, going into this summer, the one thing I thought the Mavs needed, and what they've needed for a while, is a big man. Some one who can defend other bigs in the West and still score when Dirk and Terry need a break.

On Monday, the Mavericks found out that their 5-year, $34 million offer to Orlando center Marcin Gortat had been matched by the Magic. That was certainly a blow for Dallas, not only because it would have solidified their front line, but because Gortat wanted to come to Big D and start, something he won't do in the Magic Kingdom. (Insert all hatred towards the Magic and their dealings right here please).

But now that Gortat is off the table, and Brandon Bass has signed with Orlando as well (again, shady deals for sure), where should the Mavericks turn? Emeka Okafor might be a good pick up. Anything but Erick Dampier (5.7 PPG, 7 RPG an 1 BPG last season) will be a good move for Dallas. That was awful.

What do you think? Who should the Mavs go out and get at center?

Daniel Gotera