Kaman is "pretty sure" he'll start the Oct. 30 opener. (Getty Images)

Chris Kaman is going to have to be pretty special for the Mavericks to stay afloat while Dirk Nowitzki is out following knee surgery. Dallas is relying on Kaman to bring a lot after two injury-plagued seasons in which his impact has been minimal when he has played. 

So, of course, Kaman has been out with a calf strain. But he says the injury probably won't keep him out of the season opener against the Lakers on Oct. 30. Key word: probably. From ESPN Dallas: 

“I mean, I’m pretty sure I’ll be good to go,” Kaman said when asked about his status for the season opener. “That’s a long time from now. It gives me over a week and I’m progressing pretty good. I don’t really see that as a problem, but I can’t guarantee that.”

via Chris Kaman 'pretty sure' about season opener - Dallas Mavericks Blog - ESPN Dallas.

It's just a strain and shouldn't be something he can't play through. But with Kaman being 30 years old, injuries tend to nag more. If he's not available to go ... yeah, I'm not sure who's going to start at center for the Mavericks. 

This is not starting well for Dallas. It's not a big deal yet, but it's not ideal.