Dallas Mavericks: 5 players who need more playing time

Dallas Mavericks player who needs more playing time: 2. Willie Cauley-Stein

Before coming to Dallas via trade in Jan. 2020, Cauley-Stein was the starting center for the Kings and Warriors. He brings energy, rebounding, and defense to any lineup. Trill has been working hard to expand his shooting range and improve his overall game.

The Mavericks opened the season with Dwight Powell starting at center, but after opening night fans were clamoring for more minutes for Cauley-Stein. His ability as a roll man, defender, and havoc creator pops off the screen. The Mavs have a deep frontcourt, so Trill had to earn his opportunity.

He finally received the starting nod when Dallas faced the Rockets in Houston on Jan. 4. Cauley-Stein had 15 points, seven rebounds, two assists, one steal, and one block in 24.1 minutes of action. The Mavericks outscored Houston by 18 points when Trill was on the floor too.

Willie Cauley-Stein is averaging just 13.4 minutes per game on the season. He is deserving of more than that. Trill should remain in the rotation even after Kristaps Porzingis returns from injury. The Mavericks need his energy, effort, and rebounding. Cauley-Stein will throw down some incredible alley-oops too. The best is yet to come from the 27-year-old big man.

Next: No. 1