Dawkins Courts Celtics

Darryl Dawkins, that old rim-quaking, quote-making interstellar traveler, has landed in Boston. And the man known as “Chocolate Thunder,” from “Planet Lovetron,” might even stay awhile if he can lay off the chocolate.

He showed up at the Celtics camp overweight, two days late, and determined to control his own fate as he seeks, at age 38, to return to the NBA. The days when he gave nicknames to his dunks are gone. “I’m naming layups now,” the center said.

Dawkins, who prompted the use of collapsible rims, has played in Europe since leaving the NBA in 1989.

“I’m doing extremely well for 38,” he said. “I have no ailments, no bad back. My knees are fine. I’m still dirt strong.

“After two weeks, I’ll be where I am supposed to be.”

Celtics coach M.L. Carr had little to say.

Dawkins, who said he plans to be on an NBA roster Nov. 3, hasn’t learned not to insult his new boss. Asked about an incident involving Carr during an old Celtics-76ers game, Dawkins scoffed and said, “M.L. was a lightweight.”

The Washington Bullets, who acquired Mark Price from Cleveland on Wednesday, announced they will sign Brent Price, Mark’s younger brother.

Brent Price was cut by the Bullets at the end of last season.

Commissioner David Stern said Cleveland’s Gund Arena will host the league’s 1997 All-Star game.

The Toronto Raptors must pay $1 million to charity because the expansion team will not meet the Oct. 1 deadline to set the foundation of its new arena.

The Dallas Mavericks signed first-round draft pick Cherokee Parks.

The Detroit Pistons signed first-round draft pick Theo Ratliff.