Brian

Cardinal

Cardinal is eligible to be activated from the injured list but won’t have much fantasy value when he resumes playing.

Cardinal began light workouts last week and is expected to be ready for action before the end of this week.

He’s capable of this type of performance once in a while, but has no fantasy value as part of Memphis’ 10-man rotation.

Cardinal could benefit from the injury to Troy Murphy. The Warriors announced they will not use their one available roster spot to sign another frontcourt player. Cardinal won’t be worth picking up, however.

A team official said Cardinal is questionable tonight. He missed Thursday’s game with the illness.

Cardinal wants to play one more season in the NBA before retiring, and he’s hoping that his chance comes in Dallas. “My goal is to play another year, and hopefully, that’s in Dallas,” Cardinal said. “It’s a crazy business, so we will see where things take us.” Regardless of where he lands, his role will remain unchanged.

“Jumping on a plane tomorrow headed for the Big D!,” tweeted Cardinal. “Excited to be back with the Mavs!!! Let’s get it!!!” We’ll always appreciate his performance in last year’s Finals, but Cardinal won’t have any fantasy value anytime soon.

Like with J.J. Barea and Tyson Chandler, the Mavs are cutting back to save for next season’s free agent class. Stevenson’s agent also reps Brian Cardinal, and said that he is not a lock to return next season, either.

“But at the same time I understand it’s a crazy business,” Cardinal added. “I’m awfully thankful for the previous 12 years. I’ve played longer than anybody would have expected, myself included.” It’s pretty incredible to think that “The Janitor” has played for over a decade, but his playing career may be over in the NBA after he hasn’t elicited any interest in free agency.

In just 15 minutes, Cardinal scored 13 points on 4-of-7 field goals and 5-of-6 free throws. He also had five rebounds, two assists, and two steals.