The Dallas Mavericks could find themselves on a raw end by the end of the current NBA season if Rondo would choose not to re-sign. And after that celebrated tussle between him and coach Rick Carlisle, the future all the more looks dimmer for Rondo donning the Mavs uniform.

Apparently Rondo and Carlisle got into a verbal altercation when the Rondo guard failed to follow the instructions of the Dallas head coach during the team's 99-92 win over Toronto Raptors.

Rondo did claim that such was a result of frustration. At that time, the Mavs were staring at a nine-point deficit which was overhauled when Rondo was taken out of the game. It turned out to be a good move for Carlisle as his team got the W.

However, the incident did not escape sanctions and Rondo found himself getting suspended. With Rondo out of the picture, the Mavs fell to the Hawks.

Though it seems that all is forgiven and forgotten, Rondo's fate with the Mavericks hangs in the balance. And from the looks of it, Rondo could be suiting up for another team next season. Among the teams interested in him are Los Angeles and New York.

If that would be the case, the names of Goran Dragic have now entered the picture as possible replacements. However, signing either one could be a tough task.

Dragic is now with the Miami Heat and chances are he would stay there. If not, he could be a prime target by the Lakers and the Knicks as well. So when it comes to loyalty, such may be a big question mark.

For Brandon Knight who was dealt by the Milwaukee Bucks to the Phoenix Suns, such could be an easier alternative. But to do so, Mark Cuban and company may have to pay a hefty premium to snag his services.

All these hinge on what lies ahead for Rondo and his stint with the Mavericks. The tussle is of course a red flag but if such was indeed a little misunderstanding, then the Mavericks have nothing to worry about.