Business is booming in Dallas. Even after the heartbreaking, shocking trade of Luka Dončić to the Lakers, the Mavericks have reason for optimism. Despite Kyrie Irving's season-ending torn ACL, the team was able to squeak into the Play-In, knocking off Sacramento before falling to Memphis in the final play-in game.
Then, the luck of the lottery blessed Dallas with the first overall pick this year, where they'll surely draft Duke star Cooper Flagg. One of those reasons for optimism is the Mavericks' depth. At full strength, the team boasts size, defense, and two bona fide stars in Kyrie Irving and Anthony Davis.
With Irving out most (if not all) of next season, Davis will have to shoulder the load. But the NBA 75 talent has some help, as Dallas has assembled one of the league's top cores. Among members of that core is Naji Marshall, who broke out in his first season with the Mavericks. His production will be massive with Irving out indefinitely.
Marshall's sudden breakout gives Dallas depth and options on the wing
As previously mentioned, Marshall spent four years with New Orleans before signing a three-year, $27 million contract with Dallas last offseason. After playing a depth role for the Pelicans, Marshall's new home offered a bigger role and opportunity as a player. Despite the slow start to the year, Marshall found his groove as the season progressed. More specifically, after the Luka Dončić trade.
With Klay Thompson, PJ Washington, Max Christie, Caleb Martin, Marshall, and likely Cooper Flagg on the wing, the Mavericks are loaded with depth. The area of most need is guard, where Irving will miss nearly all of next season.
But the team can afford a few injuries on the wing, where Marshall was exceptional for Dallas. He averaged 17 points, six rebounds, and four assists, shooting 51 percent (22 percent from three) and 79 percent on free throws after the All-Star break (26 games played).
In 69 games played, Marshall collected 31 starts. As a starter, he averaged 16 points, five rebounds, and four assists. In the month of March, the potential of Marshall's game was on full display. He put up averages of 20 points, seven rebounds, four assists, and one steal over 16 games (34 minutes per game).
Even with the lack of shooting, Marshall's defense and rebounding make him a perfect fit next to Dallas' stars. The versatility of Marshall was on full display, so expect more of it next season.
All appears optimistic in Dallas. With a clear vision, a championship window, and now Cooper Flagg, the Mavericks have emerged as a dark horse contender for the next few seasons. But the free agent signing of Marshall has played huge dividends for Dallas so far, and should for the ne