Kaman out to show his leadership qualities

DALLAS -– Chris Kaman is ready to hit the ground running and show the Dallas Mavericks that he can be a very proficient center.

Signed to a one-year, $8 million contract by the Mavs in July, Kaman is very eager about showing the coaching staff how he can be a quality addition to their team.

“I think I can bring some leadership qualities,’’ Kaman said Friday. “This is my 10^th year and I’m excited.’’

Kaman averaged 13.1 points and 7.7 rebounds last year with the New Orleans Hornets, and has career averages of 11.9 points and 8.3 rebounds.

The Mavs are expecting Kaman to be their starting center after they amnestied Brendan Haywood over the summer. The 7-footer is just ready to prove that he can be the best offensive center in the Mavs’ history.

“I don’t know how it’s going to go this year, I don’t know how we’re going to mesh, and I don’t know how long it’s going to take to get everybody together,’’ Kaman said. “But I just know that I’m going to do the best I can do and play as hard as I can play to help this team to victories.’’

-- Dwain Price

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