NBA notes: Chandler going from Knicks to Mavs in 6-player trade

Dallas and the New York Knicks have agreed to a six-player trade that would bring center Tyson Chandler back to the Mavericks three years after he helped them win a championship only to leave right away in free agency.

Two people with knowledge of the deal said Wednesday the Mavericks would send guards Jose Calderon, Shane Larkin and Wayne Ellington and center Samuel Dalembert to the Knicks for Chandler and point guard Raymond Felton. The people spoke on condition of anonymity because the deal hasn't been announced.

The trade, which must be approved by the NBA, would also include both Dallas draft picks Thursday night. The Mavericks have two second-round selections, at Nos. 34 and 51.

Chandler was the emotional catalyst for the Dirk Nowitzki-led Mavericks when they beat the Miami Heat in six games to win the franchise's first title in 2011.

Mavericks owner Mark Cuban made the much-debated decision not to offer him a long-term contract because of concerns over how the new labor deal would keep Dallas from making other moves.

Cavs introduce new head coach Blatt

David Blatt was introduced Wednesday as the new coach of the Cavaliers, a team in transition as it prepares to select first in the NBA Draft and make a strong run at LeBron James, the soon-to-be free agent who has several other teams making moves to try and get him.

Blatt spent the past two decades in Israel, where he developed into a top international coach. Now, after winning numerous titles across Europe and guiding Russia to a bronze medal in the 2012 London Olympics, Blatt is ready to take on the challenge of coaching on pro basketball's biggest stage.

It was time to make the jump, and the Cavs helped Blatt's overseas leap.

"Absolutely it's a challenge," Blatt said of his upcoming transition. "But I've got to tell you, the game is not so different as people think it is. It's a little bit longer here. Perhaps the level of athleticism and speed all around the court is different. But it's not like playing baseball and soccer. It's still the same game."

Blatt isn't hung up on labels or perceptions. He doesn't consider himself an Israeli coach, European coach or any type for that matter. He doesn't favor offense over defense.

Around the league

Kings • Forward Rudy Gay exercised his $19.3 million player option for next season, and the team extended a qualifying offer to point guard Isaiah Thomas to make him a restricted free agent.

Lakers • Forward Nick Young opted out of his contract and will test free agency. Young averaged a career-high 17.9 points last season.