Darrell

Armstrong

Armstrong, a free agent, was booked into an Orlando jail on charges of battery on a law-enforcement officer and resisting arrest without violence. He was released after posting $1,000 bond.

Coach Don Nelson said depending on how quickly Armstrong picks up the system, he could find himself starting. The Mavericks rank 29th in the league in assists per game, and Nelson might prefer to let Devin Harris watch and learn for a while.

If he makes the move, Jason Terry will likely back him up with Devin Harris falling to third in the rotation. Apparently, Armstrong has value right now, with apologies to Jason Terry owners.

''He gets [there] quicker than any of my other guards without screwing around with the ball,’' coach Don Nelson said, suggesting that if Armstrong, who shoots 28 percent, ''can get back to where he can make a shot, he can be quite a factor.’' Just when we thought this position was settled in Dallas with Devin Harris backing up Jason Terry, we get this gem.

Washington, Golden State, Denver, Cleveland and Atlanta are pursuing Armstrong.

The charges of battery on a law enforcement officer, a felony, and resisting an officer without violence could put Armstrong into prison for up to five years. However, prison time seems to be unlikely, and the defense will contend that Armstrong had no idea he was stirking a police officer when he attempted to push away someone who grabbed him as he left the nightclub.

Armstrong had seven points, four rebounds, and five assists in 30 minutes off the bench.

If one of the two younger players is signed, the Magic probably won’t be very aggressive in their attempts to bring back Armstrong.

He will have no fantasy value regardless of where he ends up.

Terms of the deal weren’t released, but he will see limited action backing up Jason Terry and Devin Harris in Big D.