Agent Mark Bartelstein cited Rick Carlisle as one of the primary reasons Devean George is returning to Dallas after having serious discussions with "six to eight" other teams.

Carlisle visited George at his home in Minnesota a couple of times this summer to talk to him face-to-face about how the 6-8 veteran would fit in his system with the Mavs.

"He was really impressed with Rick Carlisle," said Bartelstein, who confirmed that George agreed to a two-year, $4 million deal with a player option after one season. "He's really excited about the opportunity and direction they're going. He's looking forward to playing a whole season with Jason Kidd."

Re-signing George won't cause a sudden spike in season-ticket sales, but I can understand why Carlisle wanted him. He's a solid team guy who can play three positions.