Rudy Fernandez offered "Fat Contract" to play in Europe

With the NBA lockout in place, there are rarely transactions you get to see between the players and the teams at this stage. But for some players like Rudy Fernandez, it may be time to weigh some options and among them include the possibility of being the highest paid player of the Spanish ACB league in Europe.

Fernandez was acquired by the reigning NBA champion Dallas Mavericks two weeks ago in a draft-night trade for Jordan Hamilton. But with the NBA lockout in play, it looks like Fernandez would be better off playing in Europe.

And now, Real Madrid seems to be desperate to turn around its fortunes, reportedly offering the 6-foot-6 shooting guard a proposed six year deal that would pay him a fat $4.35 million a year salary. Fernandez was set to receive a $2.2 million paycheck next season and a potential $3.2 million going into the 2012-13 season after becoming a restricted free agent.

Fernandez will still be able to play for the Mavericks in the 2011-12 season but will thereafter leave the NBA and join the Spanish ballclub.

Due to the NBA lockout, Dallas officials cannot converse with Fernandez or his representatives.

Fernandez joined the league in 2007 after being taken in 24th overall by the Phoenix Suns but was later on traded to the Portland Trailblazers for cash considerations. He was voted by the fans to be the fourth dunker in NBA Slam Dunk Contest in 2009 All-Star Weekend where he paid tribute to former Blazer Fernando Martin by wearing his #10 jersey. He got eliminated in the first round.

It was also in 2009 that Fernandez was taken out during a game against the Los Angeles Lakers after collecting a flagrant foul from then Laker Trevor Ariza. After being brought to a hospital, Fernandez was released the next day with a bruised chest and a right hip pointer.

Among the highlights of his career included being named to the NBA All Rookie Second Team in 2009 and holding NBA rookie records for number of three point field goals made.