Once considered a quiet free-agent bargain, the versatile forward is finally shedding his anonymity as a two-way force and essential engine in Dallas' system.
When the Dallas Mavericks signed Naji Marshall in free agency, the move didn't generate the same level of excitement as some of the league's blockbuster additions. A couple seasons later, however, it's becoming increasingly clear that the Mavericks found one of the NBA's biggest bargains.
That sentiment was reinforced this week when Bleacher Report included Marshall on its list of the league's most underrated players. Despite flying under the national radar, the versatile forward has quietly become one of Dallas' most valuable contributors on both ends of the floor.
"Naji Marshall probably shouldn't be allowed to lead an anonymous NBA existence. He is a 6'9", 220-pound forward who can shape-shift on defense and then handle, create and finish on offense," Zach Buckley writes. "If Cooper Flagg and a healthy Kyrie Irving can help the Mavericks make noise next season, don't be surprised to see a lot of overdue praise come Marshall's way."
Marshall's impact goes well beyond the box score. His ability to defend multiple positions, push the pace in transition, and create offense when needed has made him an ideal fit in Dallas' rotation. While stars naturally receive most of the attention, teams also need dependable role players capable of making winning plays every night, and Marshall has consistently checked those boxes.
After averaging single-digits in points for the first four years of his career, Marshall has found a home in Dallas. He put up 13 points per game in his first season with the team, that average was bumped up to 15 per game in his second year with the Mavs.
Perhaps the biggest compliment a role player can receive is being trusted regardless of the situation. Whether the Mavericks need someone to defend an opposing star, grab a key rebound, or provide an offensive spark, Marshall has consistently answered the call.
Recognition like this ranking may not carry the weight of an All-Star selection, but it does reflect what Mavericks fans have watched throughout the last two seasons. Marshall has become far more than a complementary rotation player—he has developed into one of the team's most dependable two-way contributors.
If he continues producing at this level, it may not be long before the label of "underrated" no longer applies.
