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Report: DeAndre Jordan ’50-50' in choosing between Mavericks and Clippers

San Antonio Spurs v Los Angeles Clippers - Game Five

LOS ANGELES, CA - APRIL 28: DeAndre Jordan #6 of the Los Angeles Clippers reacts after being called for a foul against the San Antonio Spurs during Game Five of the Western Conference quarterfinals of the 2015 NBA Playoffs at Staples Center on April 28, 2015 in Los Angeles, California. The Spurs won 111-107. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Stephen Dunn/Getty Images)

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DeAndre Jordan is an unrestricted free agent, and while he’s always been expected to meet with other teams, it’s been believed that the Clippers, armed with an extra year and an additional $27 million that only they can offer, remained the frontrunners to re-sign him.

But with free agency set to kick off at midnight Eastern on Wednesday, it’s now being reported that L.A. has no better than a 50-50 chance of retaining Jordan’s services.

Chris Broussard of ESPN.com:

Free agent DeAndre Jordan is likely looking to sign a four-year deal that allows him to opt out after three seasons, which would nullify the Los Angeles Clippers’ advantage in keeping the center, sources told ESPN on Tuesday.

The Clippers could offer Jordan a deal that includes a fifth year worth $27 million. ...

Sources had told ESPN.com earlier this week that the Mavericks are considered the likeliest team to persuade Jordan to leave the Clippers, and a source close to the situation told ESPN on Tuesday that it’s “50/50" between the two teams.


Also included in this report is the idea that Jordan is tired of being a third wheel behind Blake Griffin and Chris Paul. If that is a factor, then going to Dallas, the Lakers or the Knicks would all be better options.

But the biggest part of this may be the fact that Jordan is reportedly seeking to sign a shorter deal now, to once again hit free agency and then sign another long-term contract to maximize his earning potential under the increased salary cap.

That negates the inherent advantage the Clippers had in re-signing him to a five-year max, but it sounds as though other issues -- like wanting to be recognized as a team’s primary star, or perhaps just wanting to be in a more pleasant situation -- may take priority in his decision-making process.