Dallas Mavericks: Josh Green impressive in G League debut

The Dallas Mavericks drafted Josh Green in the first round in 2020. Fans thought they would trade the pick for a veteran, but the Mavs loved Green’s potential as a 3-and-D wing. The rookie is off to a slow start. He was pressed into the rotation after the Mavericks were missing five players in the health and safety protocols, but the 20-year-old struggled in a limited role.

The Mavs sent him to the G League for additional playing time. Green was assigned to the Salt Lake City Stars because the Texas Legends opted out of the bubble. He is teammates with fellow Mavericks rookie Tyler Bey.

Josh Green played in his first G League game on Feb. 23. Let us take a closer look at the rookie’s performance.

Dallas Mavericks rookie Josh Green scores 16 in G League debut

Green came off the bench on Tuesday. The Stars have played nine games, so that should come as no surprise. The 20-year-old made a clutch corner 3-pointer to help lift Salt Lake City to their second win inside the bubble.

Green finished with 16 points, seven rebounds, and four steals. He was six of 13 from the field, including hitting two 3-pointers. The Stars outscored the Austin Spurs by six during his 24 minutes on the floor.

The 6’5 wing needs extended minutes to continue his development. The Mavericks are hoping he irons out his jumper and shows off his perimeter defense. Green wreaked havoc in transition during his lone season at Arizona. Expect that to continue inside the G League bubble in Orlando.

Dallas Mavericks teammate Tyler Bey drew the start on Tuesday. He finished with 18 points, 11 rebounds, and one block as the Stars outscored the Spurs by 16 in his 29 minutes. Both Mavs rookies were impressive on Feb. 23.

The Salt Lake City Stars return to the court on Thursday night to face the Westchester Knicks. Fans should keep an eye on how the Mavericks rookies perform.