The Mavericks were one of the worst teams in the NBA this season, combining a group of aging players with up-and-comers not quite ready to start every day.

One bright note for the team was the midseason acquisition of center Nerlens Noel, who came over from the 76ers via trade. Now a restricted free agent, owner Mark Cuban wants to bring him back to Dallas.

"I'm not allowed to talk about [negotiations] but all I can tell you is he's one of a bunch of guys who came in, they all got together and said 'Let's go down to the practice facility and start working out together,'" Cuban said, via dallasnews.com. "So they're down there now and so that's exciting to see, and he's part of that group."

Noel, 23, averaged 8.5 points and 6.8 rebounds in 22 games with the Mavericks last year. Though his points production may never be elite, Noel is a force on defense, racking up rebounds and blocks in bunches.

It's a good sign for Mavs brass that Noel decided to come in and practice voluntarily even though he isn't officially signed with the team for next season.

"I love Dallas," Noel said in April. "In my short time here, I've really enjoyed it. With the pieces that we have, and the opportunities we'll be seeing in the near future, I think there's a lot to be excited for."

Noel had a hard time getting consistent playing time in Philadelphia due to its mass of lottery-pick centers. But it appears he will have the freedom to play his own game in Dallas, and possibly make a profound impact on both ends of the court.