NBA free agent rumors: Doc Rivers spoke with O.J. Mayo about playing for Clippers

Once the Los Angeles Clippers had secured an agreement with point guard Chris Paul to re-sign early Monday, they quickly shifted focus to acquiring a backcourt mate for the perennial All-Star. The Clippers have strong interest in signing Dallas Mavericks free agent O.J. Mayo, and newly appointed coach Doc Rivers spoke with Mayo on Monday, according to Yahoo! Sports' Adrian Wojnarowski.

USA Today's Sam Amick reported that it's Rivers who has interest in the versatile shooting guard who averaged 15.3 points and 4.4 assists per game last year. Amick also reported that it's possible the Clippers and Mavericks could look into a sign-and-trade deal involving Mayo and Los Angeles backup point guard Eric Bledsoe.

Mayo had a strong start to last season but struggled after the All-Star break. He was scoring 18.9 points per game before but mustered 11.9 points per outing afterward as the Mavs began giving Dirk Nowitzki more touches when he finally hit his stride following knee surgery last offseason.

No matter Mayo's inconsistencies, his offensive skillset coupled with his defensive capabilities make him one of the best shooting guards on the market, behind perhaps only Monta Ellis and Tyreke Evans.

In addition to the Clippers, the Utah Jazz, Milwaukee Bucks, Minnesota Timberwolves, Portland Trail Blazers, Charlotte Bobcats and Chicago Bulls are all reportedly interested in signing Mayo.