Powell's return to Dallas cracks open a long-shot path to Cisse for Knicks

Dwight Powell's re-signing left Dallas at the roster limit of 15 standard contracts, and NBA insider Marc Stein reported the Mavericks have not ruled out clearing a spot to keep him.

That would force a cut elsewhere on a crowded frontcourt behind Daniel Gafford and Dereck Lively II, potentially putting Moussa Cisse at risk. New York pursued Cisse this summer before Dallas matched his offer sheet, and his youth and rim-protection fit still make him a natural target if he becomes available again.

Nothing suggests Dallas is planning to move on from Cisse, but Powell's arrival gives the Knicks something to watch that did not exist before.