Mavericks have a growing Naji Marshall problem that they need to solve

The Dallas Mavericks seem to have stumbled upon a gem in Naji Marshall, but he’s almost playing too well. Dallas will have to decide whether or not to keep him around for the future or pay him, as he will be entering the final year of his contract (the 2026-27 campaign). It’s a good problem to have, but a situation that will need a solution nonetheless.

Marshall has been awesome for the Mavs, despite the fact that they haven’t been winning many games. He’s the exact type of player who Dallas should want on board, but if they don’t want to pay him, then capitalizing on his value this offseason could be a smart play.

But again, having a guy who is as good as Marshall is a good thing overall.

Mavericks need to decide if Naji Marshall is part of their future

Marshall’s overall success is perfectly highlighted by his performance in the Mavs’ 130-121 loss to the Sacramento Kings on Thursday night. Even though Dallas lost, Marshall was great.

He got the start alongside Max Christie, Caleb Martin, Khris Middleton, and Marvin Bagley III, playing a team-high 42:10. Obviously, his minutes allowed him to put up big-time stats, but it was still an impressive showing.

The veteran forward finished the night with 36 points, 10 rebounds, and six assists while shooting 14-of-23 from the floor and 1-of-4 from beyond the three-point arc. He also shot 7-of-11 from the free-throw line.

Obviously, once the Mavericks’ regulars get healthy again, Marshall won’t play as many minutes as he did against the Kings. And he almost certainly won’t get as many shots.

But the fact that he’s capable of putting up these types of numbers when called upon is very valuable. The question is, how valuable is it?

The Mavs probably won’t be good enough to compete for a playoff spot next year unless everything breaks their way. So, should they get ahead of things, play Marshall a bunch to increase his trade value, and move him this summer?

What could they get back in a Marshall trade? Would they be able to get a first and then some in return? Would that be worth it?

Or, do they view him as a part of their future? Are they willing to pay him in a couple of summers? Will they pay him more than other teams around the league would give him?

This isn’t a pressing issue right now, but it’s something they’ll have to think about (starting) this summer, especially with how well Marshall has been playing this year.