In Dirk we trust on his long trip

Since Dirk Nowitzki and the Mavericks had an agreement that he wouldn't play international ball this summer, he's making the most of the down time by going to South Africa as part of the NBA's Basketball Without Borders program. It's a great trip, one that Nowitzki will draw a lot of powerful experiences from, not to mention plenty of memories. He might also be able to conduct some business while he's down there. Guess who else is on the trip? Chris Bosh. What better time for Bosh and Dirk to hang out, spread goodwill, learn about the good and the bad of the greater Johannesburg area and, just maybe, talk about the possibilities of playing together in a year or less. Both are free agents after this season and if Nowitzki opts out and then re-signs at a lower salary-cap number, the Mavericks might still be able to swing a deal for Bosh, although he is happy playing in Toronto. The Dallas native certainly would be open to talks about returning home. So we're putting this one on Dirk. Chat up Bosh during this trip. You never know what kind of benefits it might reap down the line. Eddie Sefko