The Dallas Mavericks continue to make progress in fixing the franchise's relationship with disgruntled sophomore guard Dennis Smith Jr., according to a report by The Athletic's Shams Charania.

Mavericks head coach Rick Carlisle apologized to Dennis Smith Jr. in phone conversation, expressing remorse over situation. The Mavericks have made clear Smith has been positive presence for them.

In addition, Charania said Smith responded positively to this move by Carlisle.

Sources: After Dallas head coach Rick Calisle and guard Dennis Smith Jr. spoke on a call, Smith will report to the Mavericks on Tuesday and play against the Clippers. Carlisle and Smith had productive conversations.

Smith has frequently been mentioned in trade rumors after he reportedly had a fallout with the Mavericks. His role with the team diminished with the arrival of rookie sensation Luka Doncic. Smith's frustration grew following the change of his role and the significant decrease in his minutes, which eventually led to him demanding a trade from the Mavericks.

While Dallas has constantly tried to look for a trade partner all season, the team has also made it clear that they still want to things work with Smith. The Mavericks have said nothing but good things about the 21-year-old guard despite their conflict.

Now that everything seems to be going in the right direction, it will be interesting to see what the Mavericks will do with Smith. Will he be a part of the team's regular rotation or will he be sent to another team before the trade deadline?

Right now, all signs point to DSJ staying put.