Mavs relieved as NBA expands playoff rosters
By EDDIE SEFKO / The Dallas Morning News
A possible roster issue for the Mavericks has been resolved by the NBA, which on Tuesday announced that playoff rosters were being increased from 12 to 13 players.
The move means that the Mavericks won't have to leave one healthy player off their playoff roster. With Keith Van Horn and Pavel Podkolzin injured, the Mavericks expect to have 13 healthy bodies.
Under the old, 12-man format, somebody would have had to be left off the roster.
With the new setup, one player will have to be deactivated before each playoff game. Only 12 players will be allowed to suit up.
The only concern for the Mavericks would be if Van Horn becomes healthy enough to merit consideration as the 13th player. He is recovering from hand surgery and it's conceivable he could be ready to play if the Mavericks reached the Western Conference finals or NBA Finals.
The Mavericks have until 2 p.m. April 20 to finalize their playoff roster.
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