The Dallas Mavericks faced the Phoenix Suns on Sunday afternoon, suffering a tough 125-116 loss as injuries continue to plague the team. While much of the attention has been on Klay Thompson’s impact, head coach Jason Kidd appears to have found another key contributor in Naji Marshall.
Marshall entered the game averaging 11.7 points per game on 49.4% shooting from the field. With the Mavericks dealing with significant health issues, he has stepped up in a major way.
“He’s been playing great, he’s giving everything he has,” Kidd said of Marshall. “We appreciate the effort he’s putting in. We’re going to need that again tomorrow night (against the San Antonio Spurs). Hopefully, he can keep it going. The biggest thing for us is health. Our health has been bad, so if he can stay healthy, I think he has a chance to have some success.”
Marshall shines, but Suns’ star duo proves too much
Despite Marshall’s breakout performance, the Mavericks couldn’t contain the Suns‘ balanced offensive attack, led by Devin Booker and Kevin Durant. Booker finished with 24 points and six assists, while Durant nearly notched a triple-double with 21 points, nine rebounds, and eight assists.
Naji Marshall #13 of the Dallas Mavericks drives to the basket as Royce O’Neale #00 of the Phoenix Suns
Marshall speaks on career night
Naji Marshall delivered a career-best performance, leading the Mavericks with 34 points, 10 assists, and nine rebounds. After the game, he reflected on his approach to keeping the offense in rhythm.
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“Just trying to keep the pace high, push the pace,” Marshall said. “Rebound and push, get stops. Rebound and push.” Marshall has emerged as a key piece for Dallas, stepping up in critical moments. His increased role has helped the Mavs stay competitive despite their injury struggles.
Mavericks’ injury concerns grow
Marshall’s standout night was unexpected, as many anticipated a big game from Klay Thompson. Thompson still had a strong performance, contributing 26 points, five rebounds, and four assists. The rest of the Mavericks’ starting five also chipped in, with each scoring in double digits.
However, injuries remain a major issue for the team. On Sunday, three more Mavericks players went down. Kessler Edwards and Dwight Powell collided, with Edwards requiring stitches and Powell likely needing the same. Additionally, Brandon Williams exited with a hamstring injury. The Mavericks must find solutions quickly as they look to stay afloat in the Western Conference NBA playoff race.
