Clippers’ Donaldson-for-Nimphius Trade With Dallas Runs Into Snag

The Clippers, who were set to trade center James Donaldson to Dallas for center Kurt Nimphius today, might have to wait at least a day before completing the deal because the Mavericks have problems staying within salary-cap limitations.

To fit Donaldson and his $515,000 salary into the club’s payroll, Dallas first has to trade or release at least one other player. The Mavericks were ready to trade reserve forward Dale Ellis to New York for a first-round draft pick, but the Knicks put that trade on hold Sunday night.

The Mavericks also are prepared to waive veteran forward Wallace Bryant to help free money.

“We can’t do anything until we take care of that (Ellis) first,” said Dallas General Manager Norm Sonju, who called Knicks General Manager Dave DeBusschere three times Sunday in an attempt to complete both trades by today. “It might not happen at all.”

Clipper executives again would not comment on the impending Donaldson-for-Nimphius trade, but it is known that the Clippers and Mavericks reached a tentative agreement early last week. Clipper sources maintain it is Donaldson’s inconsistent play, not his lucrative guaranteed contract for the next two seasons, that is the reason for the trade.

Nimphius, a 6-11 center-forward whose $225,000 contract is not guaranteed, would be a backup to Clipper rookie Benoit Benjamin if the trade is consummated. Nimphius has been starting at center for Dallas, which has been searching for a “true” center for several years.

Sonju and Coach Dick Motta have decided Donaldson is their man, and the Clippers have decided Donaldson has to go.

“If Dallas can work it out, this trade is going to happen,” said a Clipper source.