The Dallas Mavericks are in a tough spot right now. Sitting at 18-26, they’re staring up at the Western Conference standings with time running out to turn things around.
With the playoff picture starting to take shape, Dallas is exploring all options-including the trade market-to try and salvage the season. One name that’s surfaced in recent talks?
Dante Exum.
But while trade rumors swirl, there’s still basketball to be played, and the Mavericks have a big one coming up as they host the Los Angeles Lakers. This matchup already has some emotional weight behind it, thanks to the high-profile trade that sent Luka Dončić to L.A. It’s not your typical regular-season clash-there’s history, and maybe even a little tension, baked in.
Still, don’t expect the Mavericks to get caught up in the drama. Naji Marshall made that crystal clear when asked about the looming matchup and the potential distractions that come with facing Dončić.
His response? Calm, composed, and refreshingly focused: “It wasn’t us who got traded or fired.
It’s not really something we should focus on that much.”
That’s the kind of mindset you want from a player in the middle of a turbulent season. Marshall isn’t looking in the rearview mirror-he’s locked in on what’s ahead. And with the trade deadline fast approaching, his name is starting to pick up steam in league circles as well.
According to recent reports, the Los Angeles Clippers have emerged as a potential landing spot for Marshall. League insiders suggest his value on the trade market is likely in the range of 2-3 second-round picks.
Analyst Sam Quinn noted that while teams like the Lakers might be interested, they simply don’t have the assets to make a deal work. The Clippers, on the other hand, could be a more realistic partner.
One hypothetical scenario that’s been floated involves a package centered around Brook Lopez and those second-round picks. It’s the kind of deal that could make sense for both sides-Dallas gets future assets and a veteran presence, while the Clippers add a versatile wing who’s quietly putting together a solid season.
Marshall’s numbers back that up. He’s averaging 13.4 points, 4.6 rebounds, and 2.6 assists per game-steady production that’s caught the attention of front offices around the league. He’s the kind of player who doesn’t need the spotlight to make an impact, and that’s valuable, especially for a contender looking to bolster its depth.
For now, though, Marshall remains a Maverick. And with the Lakers coming to town, he and the rest of the squad will be looking to make a statement-not just to the fans, but to the rest of the league.
The message? Dallas isn’t done yet.