LAS VEGAS — The Mavericks had a contingency plan to replace defensive specialist Derrick Jones Jr., who departed in free agency to join the Los Angeles Clippers.
Naji Marshall is expected to be one of the primary pieces to the Mavericks’ hopes to retain their status as one of the best defenses in the NBA since last season’s All-Star break.
Marshall signed a three-year, $27 million contract to join the Western Conference champions in the offseason after four seasons in New Orleans in a crowded wing room. Nicknamed “The Knife” for his tenacious defense and ability to guard multiple positions, Marshall was named one of the initial standouts in the first couple of days of training camp, according to fellow newcomer Klay Thompson.
“Naji played incredible,” Thompson said Tuesday. “The guy was making floaters, pull-ups. I thought he played really well. I was impressed with Naji. He scored a couple of times on me. His jumper was fluid and his midrange was nice.”
Klay Thompson said Naji Marshall stood out from today’s practice.
— Mike Curtis (@MikeACurtis2) October 1, 2024
“Naji played incredible. The guy was making floaters, pull-ups. I thought he played really well, I was impressed with Naji. He scored a couple of times on me. His jumper was fluid and his midrange was nice.” pic.twitter.com/iDHOzlNQ75
Marshall said he wanted to set the tone for the first practice of the season with his ability to play on both ends of the floor. Defense will be his primary responsibility, but the fifth-year forward wants to contribute in as many ways as he can.
“Whatever they need me to do on defense, on offense, energy,” Marshall said regarding his role with the team. “However they need me to fit in.”
Marshall, along with several other Mavericks players, will be the beneficiary of plenty of open shots due to the defensive attention created by Luka Doncic, Kyrie Irving and Thompson. As a 38% 3-point shooter from last season, Marshall welcomes the ability to contribute on the offensive end as well.
“Nine times out of 10, I’ll probably shoot a lot more open shots than I have before. That’s always a plus. I shot pretty good from 3 last year. I’m trying to shoot better this year.”
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