Mavericks Ink Deal with David Lee, Release John Jenkins

The Dallas Mavericks have signed power forward David Lee on Monday.

The 32-year-old veteran, who had cleared waivers after being bought out by the Boston Celtics, agreed to sign for "the room exception of $2.1 million," Shams Charania of The Vertical reported. The Mavericks waived John Jenkins to make room for Lee.

"We think he can play both big positions, some 4 and some backup 5," Mavericks head coach Rick Carlisle said. "I just think he's a quality veteran player who has been in a situation in Boston where they were overstocked and decided to go with some younger guys. We believe he can help us."

Mavericks' Dirk Nowitzki added, "He's a smart player. He knows how to play. He can score around the basket, he's a good passer out of the post, he's a good rebounder, which sometimes we have issues with our rebounding, so he should help us there. I just think it's another solid veteran that wants to win."

In Boston, the two-time All-Star was averaging 7.1 points and 4.3 rebounds in 15.7 minutes.

Over the years, despite Lee's impressive resume, which includes an NBA championship with the Golden State Warriors, he had fallen out of the rotation with the Warriors and the Celtics.

With the Mavericks, Lee is expected to take more of a leadership role, which could come in handy for the postseason.

The Mavericks (30-27) are currently sixth in the western conference.