PHOENIX — Naji Marshall is aware that his best has yet to come.
After spending four seasons in New Orleans, Marshall is still learning the Mavericks’ offensive and defensive schemes. His official debut in a Mavericks uniform was underwhelming if you’re looking at the statline — two points and three assists in 21 minutes against the San Antonio Spurs. However, there were several glimpses of Marshall’s versatility that the Mavericks will need in order to be successful.
Marshall showcased his playmaking ability with a full-court assist to Kyrie Irving and a lob to Dereck Lively II. Defense is his primary strength, but Mavericks coach Jason Kidd wants Marshall to make an impact on the offensive end whenever the opportunity presents itself.
“I thought Naji did a great job in Game 1 and we’re going to look at him to have to guard, but we’re going to need him to play-make and play on the offensive end,” Kidd said before Saturday’s game against the Phoenix Suns. “Not just one-sided. The shots, being able to touch the paint, or knocking down wide-open 3s. Everybody will talk about his defense, but we need him to go both ways.”
Marshall averaged 7.5 points and 4.8 rebounds while shooting 43% from beyond the arc in four preseason games. He’ll have plenty of opportunities to increase his production over the next week in games against Phoenix, Utah, Minnesota and Houston. Marshall embraces the challenge.
“It’s what I look forward to,” Marshall told The Dallas Morning News. “These are the types of things that get me going. I still haven’t played my best in a Mavericks jersey.”
What does Marshall’s best look like?
“Everybody eats,” Marshall said. “For the opposing team, nobody eats. We’re the only one that eats.”
