Eddie Sefko

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It started as a wild, unconfirmed rumor, right there with "Aliens Stole My Husband" on the front of the supermarket tabloids.

Jason Terry plays sticky defense?

The reigning sixth man of the year has many talents. Above all, he's a scorer. But defense has never been his true calling.

But it is something that he really has taken seriously during training camp. Against Memphis on Sunday, he had two steals in the first quarter that led to points. He's working at it. And with his quickness, hard work translates into decent defense.

"Coach told me that's what my role is this season, so you know me – I'm a team guy," Terry said. "Guys see me doing it and I'm obviously an offensive player and it's going to catch on and translate into some more wins."

Coach Rick Carlisle confirmed that Terry's effort on defense is more fact than fiction.

"He's made strides defensively, but it's work," Carlisle said. "I told him there's been a little bit of a drop-off from the first week of camp over the last two or three days, so I want him to pick it back up. But I like what he's done a lot."

Terry won't ever be confused with Bruce Bowen. But if he can be a pest defensively, it will help the Mavericks – and send the message to teammates that defense can be an acquired taste.