Mavericks' top trade candidate must fix longtime fatal flaw to avoid a summer trade

Naji Marshall has made it clear he wants to remain with the Dallas Mavericks for the long term, as he hopes to be a key centerpiece around Cooper Flagg. The Mavs' forward was outspoken when discussing his time around Flagg before the trade deadline. So, Marshall hopes to extend his stay in Dallas and build something special. However, he'll need to fix his jumper to be a long-term fit with the 19-year-old prodigy.

Marshall is struggling to knock down his perimeter shots, especially from beyond the 3-point line. He is currently shooting 31.4 percent from long range, as he has yet to find a consistent rhythm. He has struggled to replicate his numbers from his final season with the New Orleans Pelicans back in 2023-24, where he made 38.7 percent of his 3-pointers.

Fast forward to now, and Marshall's numbers have taken a dip. His early inconsistencies were something that haunted the Mavs' offense, even dating back to last season. Marshall started the year making three of his first 20 3-point attempts. Plus, he failed to make one 3-pointer in his first five games in October. Marshall has also had multiple games where he has shot zero percent from long range.

Marshall's jump shot could make or break his Mavericks career

Marshall will need to fix his jumper to become an effective 3-and-D wing, which the Mavs desperately lack. He can't always just rely upon his dribble-drive game. He'll eventually have to transition to a role more off the ball, and hitting open shots will be key.

For starters, the Mavs need to equip Cooper Flagg for success with strong, consistent floor-spacers. This is why Max Christie has thrived in Dallas. He has helped elevate his game through his 3-point shooting. His high level of play and shooting has made him a primary starter, and he has proven that he will be the perfect replacement for Klay Thompson. It's clear Christie has been everything the team has been looking for after acquiring him last season.

Marshall, too, has been effective in the lineup. He has excelled inside the paint, as he has been dominant with his short-range shots. His effectiveness down low has elevated his game to the next level. He can drive to the basket without hesitation from any angle and sink quick floaters. This is one of the many reasons why Dallas held onto him at the trade deadline.

Yet, if he hopes to earn another contract with the Mavericks, it'll be up to his shooting. Remember, Marshall is on a team-friendly deal. Dallas signed Marshall two years ago in hopes of obtaining a perimeter defender who could shoot the ball from long range. The team has gotten one of those things, as he has proven to be a reliable defender.

This means Marshall must improve his long-range shooting if he wants to stay in Dallas.
Remember, Marshall was a hot commodity around the time of the trade deadline. He was believed to be the Mavs' top trade candidate, and many teams hoped to acquire him. The team should be able to find a suitable trade partner again if they ever want to move on, especially with his success in the paint and his defensive tangibles.

Although the Mavericks could hold onto Marshall if he makes the right adjustments, he will need to effectively improve his jump shot and be consistent from the 3-point line. Assuming he does the right things, then he could see himself being in Dallas a bit longer.