Dallas Sports Offseason Update

As the British Open odds steal attention across the pond, the Lone Star State has other things on its mined – namely, the offseasons for the Mavs, Cowboys and Stars. We still have a few months before the seasons start but there’s never a true resting period in the offseason. Let’s catch up with our Dallas teams.

Dallas Mavericks

No major waves to report, but we do know the Mavs are trying to land a big man, and you probably shouldn’t bet against it at your offshore sportsbook. Though Mark Cuban quashed rumors of Dallas trying to acquire Glen “Big Baby” Davis from Boston, the Mavs gave restricted free agent Marcin Gortat a five-year, $34 million offer only to see the Magic match it. It’s safe to say the Mavs aren’t satisfied with Erick Dampier and they may try to unload his expiring contract (he has two years left but the last year isn’t guaranteed).

Meanwhile, Mavs first-round pick Rodrigue Beaubois is staying in Texas. Some sports predictions had him bolting for Europe, but he signed his rookie contract, guaranteeing him roughly $1.9 million over two years.

Dallas Cowboys

After Terrell Owens’ departure, wide receivers are the focus of the Cowboys camp and questions abound. First off, can Roy Williams re-establish himself as a legit No. 1 NFL receiver? He worked hard with Tony Romo this offseason, so they should have better chemistry entering 2009. He’s also in much better shape than he was last season.

Since there’s a big drop-off after Williams, you have to wonder if, amazingly, Michael Irvin’s reality show 4th and Long could actually impact the Cowboys’ roster. Receivers Andrew Hawkins and Jesse Holley are in the final four and both failed NFL tryouts in the past. However, Hawkins has Canadian Football League experience and his cousin, Geroy Simon, is a CFL All-Star wideout, so you just never know. If ever there was an opening to make the Cowboys’ receiving corps, now’s the time.

Dallas Stars

The Stars are the quietest of the Dallas teams this week, but there’s some good news to report; Brenden Morrow, the team captain and lifeblood of the franchise, is reportedly back to full health. He hasn’t played since tearing his ACL in November but the rehab has worked and he expects to be ready to start 2009. I’m betting management in Dallas won’t stop Morrow from rushing back after seeing its team flop without him.