The Dallas Mavericks are heading into this NBA season with high hopes, and why not? After a triumphant run to the Western Conference Finals last year, Luka Doncic and Co. are focused on one goal: bringing that championship trophy back to Dallas for the first time since 2011. With a beefed-up roster including some eyebrow-raising additions, it seems the Mavericks are loading up for a serious run.
One newcomer in particular has Doncic positively thrilled. Meet Naji Marshall, the Mavs’ fresh three-year, $27 million investment who has, in true Dallas fashion, already brought plenty of grit and grind to the floor. A 6-foot-6 Swiss Army knife of a player, Marshall has quickly made an impression with his versatile game, and the Slovenian sensation Doncic couldn’t be happier.
“I love his game. I’ve always liked him, even back in his New Orleans days,” Doncic said, likely with that signature smirk. “He’s a very complete player—he can guard, bring the ball up, shoot, and drive. He’s adjusting to a new team and will keep getting better.”
Dallas Adds a “Complete Player” (Finally)
Marshall’s role has been far from a starting gig – averaging just 18.5 minutes per game – but his impact has been anything but small. Through six games, he’s posting modest numbers on the stat sheet (3.3 points, 3.2 rebounds, 3.2 assists, and a steal per game), but don’t let those stats fool you. Marshall’s hustle and defense have energized the Mavericks every time he steps on the floor. In short, he’s the player you didn’t know you needed until you have him, and it’s showing.
For those unaware, Marshall was a standout at Xavier and even made the First-Team All-Big East in 2020. However, he found himself in and out of the lineup in New Orleans, where he spent his first four seasons trying to break into a stacked rotation. Now, Marshall has a golden opportunity to carve out his place in Dallas – and he’s looking to take full advantage.
The Return of the Mavericks’ “Big Three”
While Marshall is the newest face on the team, Dallas fans will be happy to see the core of last year’s squad back in action. Doncic, Kyrie Irving, and P.J. Washington have returned, with some new firepower on board: Klay Thompson. Yes, that Klay Thompson. One of the deadliest shooters in NBA history has now joined the Mavericks, creating what many are calling a potential offensive powerhouse in the Western Conference.
At just 24, Doncic’s accolades keep piling up – and so do his jaw-dropping stats. He finished third in MVP voting last season, behind only Nikola Jokic and Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, with a gaudy 33.9 points per game and a field goal percentage near 49%. Doncic was dishing out assists at a league-leading clip, putting up 9.8 assists per game. This season, he’s started strong again, with 28 points, 8.5 rebounds, and 6.2 assists per game. No wonder the Mavs are setting their sights high.
So, if you’re a Mavericks fan, buckle up for a wild season. With Luka leading the way, Marshall adding grit, and a roster that’s looking like a serious contender, it’s safe to say the Mavs mean business this year. And if Luka Doncic’s excitement over Naji Marshall is anything to go by, things are only getting started in Big D.
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