NBA looking ahead: Lakers at Dallas on Sunday

Looking ahead

LAKERS AT DALLAS: Sunday at 10 a.m. PST. TV: Channel 7

Leave it to Mark Cuban to add sizzle to what seemed like a dull matchup only a few days ago. The Mavericks owner suggested Friday the Lakers should consider using using their one-time amnesty provision on Kobe Bryant, the franchise’s all-time leading scorer. Severing ties with Bryant would indeed save the Lakers millions of dollars as more punitive luxury taxes commence next season. It also might trigger riots on the same route where fans are more accustomed to holding title parades. Maybe Cuban should focus on his issues, such as going from NBA champion to not reaching the playoffs in only two years.

—Ben Bolch