Dallas Mavericks Rumors: Former Jazz C Greg Ostertag Joins Mavericks Affiliate

Former Utah Jazz center Greg Ostertag was one of the most dominant shot-blocking big men of his time, averaging a blocked shot every 11.5 minutes of playing time.

Ostertag's Jazz made the NBA Finals in both 1997 and 1998, and played excellent defense against the likes of Shaquille O'Neal, Hakeem Olajuwon, and David Robinson.

After the conclusion of the 2005-06 NBA season, Ostertag cut his career short, retiring at the age of 32.

Many people were upset to see him walk away from the game so early, including Ostertag himself.

"I missed playing,'' Ostertag told the Dallas Morning News. "I shouldn't have quit when I did and I feel like I got to give it one last shot to see if I can make it happen."

Now 38, Ostertag recently signed with the Texas Legends of the NBA D-League, according to RidiculousUpside.com. Based in Frisco, a Dallas suburb, the Legends came to terms with the 7'2'' center early this afternoon. He is expected to begin his comeback on Thursday at home against Rio Grande Valley.

Ostertag thought about making a comeback once before, but after many discussions with his family decided against it.

Although the Texas Legends are based in the Dallas area, the D-League team is by no means tied solely to the Dallas Mavericks. Should Ostertag prove that he is still worthy of an NBA contract, any team would be able to make him an offer.

The Mavericks are in desperate need of another big body on defense, though. After two humiliating home loses to open the regular season, it's blatantly obvious how much Dallas already misses former center Tyson Chandler, who has played well so far in his short time with the New York Knicks.

Starting center Brendan Haywood has struggled out of the gate, and Dirk Nowitzki is almost useless defensively against good NBA centers.

Frenchman Ian Mahinmi is not a viable option down low yet, as he is still a work in progress.

On paper, Dallas has a strong lineup of offensive weapons, yet the center position is definitely a cause for concern. If Ostertag plays some quality basketball during his time in Frisco, he could be a great veteran addition to Dallas' bench.

Ostertag is originally from Dallas, so it would be great for Mavericks fans to see a hometown boy come out of retirement to help their team compete for a second championship.