Tobi Lawal’s defense-first mentality is why he already deserves a role for Mavericks

While he's only on a two-way contract currently, Tobi Lawal is proving early on that he deserves a role on the Dallas Mavericks, as his play combined with his defense-first mentality has been one of the biggest bright spots throughout preseason for the Mavericks.

Lawal matched John Poulakidas as Dallas' highest scorer in their game versus the New Orleans Pelicans on Wednesday night, as he had 16 points, and was dynamic cutting to the rim from all sides of the floor. Lawal is a freakish athlete at 6-foot-8, as he has great lateral quickness and top-notch leaping ability, which has been prevalent on the defensive end for him in preseason thus far.

Tobi Lawal's mindset on defense will lead him to a role on the Mavericks

Lawal spoke on his mentality on defense right after Dallas' loss to the Pelicans, as the ambition and drive he's exhibiting on that end aren't typical for a player on a mere two-way contract.

“Definitely a great experience…I want to be the best defender I possibly can," Lawal said in regard to guarding the likes of Herb Jones and Trey Murphy III. "I’m not going to say the best in the league yet, cause I’m not there yet, but hopefully one day I am. I don’t care who it is. As long as I can guard anyone, I’m gonna learn, and I’m gonna be relentless too. So I’m gonna keep coming back…”

It's no secret the Mavericks are crowded on the wing, and being on a two-way deal, Lawal is going to fight an uphill battle to gain a real role on the Mavericks or any team, for that matter. However, he's proving early that he can be an effective contributor on both sides of the ball, despite not having showcased a polished jumper yet.

More importantly, though, Lawal's mentality in terms of wanting to be the best defender in the league is something that will get him on the floor sooner rather than later. Even if he never reaches that feat, the belief and buy-in he's manufacturing in himself will go a long way in terms of becoming an elite defender in the league, as he has the athletic tools to go as far as the work he puts in on that end of the floor.

Lawal's cutting, efficiency, and buy-in on defense have popped early on

If Lawal adds a little muscle to his wiry frame, he profiles as the type of player who can guard one through five at some point in the future. For Mavericks fans unfamiliar with Lawal's game, he profiles as a lengthier Derrick Jones Jr. on defense, even if he isn't as dynamic offensively as Jones Jr. yet.

Despite the amount of length, athleticism, and defense Dallas already has on the wing, none of their wings are as athletic as Lawal, even second-year phenom Cooper Flagg. If an opportunity presents itself for him at some point this season, it wouldn't be surprising if Lawal becomes an integral part of Dallas' rotation. Even though he has leaps and bounds to improve offensively, his mentality on defense and prowess as a cutter are advanced enough skills to lend him a role on the Mavericks.

Add us as a preferred source on Google

Follow