Rick Carlisle Not Averse to Coaching Ron Artest Again

"Of course," said Carlisle, who coached Artest in Indiana. "This guy is one of the real difference-makers that we have in this league. He’s had one all-star year; that’s when he played for me. I’ve had a chance to reconnect with Ronnie a couple times over the last couple of years. I love him and I love his family, so yeah. This guy was one of the most physical, intimidating players that I’ve ever seen at the small forward position, so he’d be a player that any team would want to have."

Carlisle was upfront about the likelihood of the complexion of the Mavs’ roster changing over the summer. For the Mavs to make a major splash in the trade market, Josh Howard would probably have to go. Carlisle was gentle with his comments about J-Ho, who he will meet for dinner tomorrow night. [Dallas Morning News]