Dirk Nowitzki will return for his 21st season with the Dallas Mavericks, finalizing a one-year, $5 million contract for the 2018-19 season, as reported by Yahoo Sports. This deal will set a new NBA record for consecutive seasons with one franchise, surpassing the current tie with Kobe Bryant, provided he plays in at least one game. The Mavericks previously declined an option on Nowitzki’s contract to improve their salary cap flexibility, though both sides expected to reach a new agreement. Last season, Nowitzki played in 77 games, averaging 12.0 points and 5.7 rebounds. He currently ranks sixth on the NBA’s all-time scoring list with 31,187 points. Additionally, the Mavericks and guard Yogi Ferrell agreed to a two-year, $5.3 million contract. Ferrell, who averaged 10.2 points in all 82 games last season, has played 118 games for Dallas over the past two years, starting 50. Despite the Mavericks rescinding his $2.9 million qualifying offer, Ferrell’s new contract was seen as a formality after he agreed to terms for a deal worth less than the original offer.
