Through most of his stellar NBA career, Dirk Nowitzki has been playing power forward for the Dallas Mavericks. However, entering his 20th season, his team will be fielding him in a different position instead.

It was revealed recently that the Mavs will be starting the 39-year-old German international at the center position, according to Isaac Harris of The Smoking Cuban. Apparently head coach Rick Carlisle is looking to have him at the five spot, as he is still uncertain if he will start Nerlens Noel.

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https://twitter.com/IsaacHarrisNBA/status/912378192727592960

Although Nowitzki has already played center during some stretches in the past, he will be forced this coming season to defend younger bigs, who are naturals at that position. It may become an issue for the Mavs, as he could be fatigued and may see less minutes on the floor. However, it could also be to their advantage, as he has the ability to hold his own inside the paint, and can serve as a stretch five for the team as well. It will force opposing centers to defend him on the perimeter, providing more space for his teammates to operate.

It remains to be seen if Carlisle will use this ploy or not, but the good news for them is that Nowitzki is very skilled and versatile, which has made him one of the best players to ever play the game. It’s also very interesting to find out why Noel is not starting for them, as he played solid basketball for the Mavericks last season. For now, it’s still unclear, but will all unfold once the season starts in a few weeks.