Mavericks’ Naji Marshall Eager to Return from Illness Against Clippers: “I’m Ready to Contribute”
Naji Marshall is set to return to the Dallas Mavericks lineup on Thursday night against the Los Angeles Clippers after missing five of the team’s six games in December due to illness. Marshall practiced for two consecutive days before the matchup and is eager to contribute again.
“It’s been eight days, so I feel good,” Marshall said after Wednesday’s practice. “I’ve got my legs back under me. It was just a little bit of time off, but I’m good now. I’m back and feeling better.”
Marshall’s return comes at a crucial time for Dallas. Luka Dončić has been ruled out with a left heel contusion, and Kyrie Irving is listed as questionable with right shoulder soreness. The Mavericks are also without Jaden Hardy (right ankle sprain), Danté Exum (right wrist surgery), and Brandon Williams (right thumb sprain), leaving the team shorthanded against a Clippers squad coming off a dominant win over the Utah Jazz.
Marshall’s ability to step up in Dončić’s absence has been evident this season. In six games without the superstar, he has averaged 18.0 points, 3.3 rebounds, and 1.3 assists, compared to his season averages of 11.9 points, 3.4 rebounds, and 2.4 assists in 21 games. His November stretch showcased his scoring ability as he averaged 22.7 points per game on the Mavericks’ three-game road trip, including an impressive 66.7% shooting from beyond the arc during that span.
Marshall last played during the NBA Cup quarterfinals against the Oklahoma City Thunder, where he finished with 19 points and four rebounds in 19 minutes. However, as his illness lingered, he missed the Mavericks’ thrilling 143-133 victory over the Golden State Warriors on Sunday.
Marshall watched the Mavericks’ thrilling victory during Sunday’s matchup from afar since he did not travel with the team. He noticed how apparent it was
“It was amazing, dawg. I had to turn it off a couple of times, though,” Marshall said. “They were having too much fun. Just seeing the guys out there playing and having fun made me even more excited to get back.”
Dončić stole the show at Chase Center with a 45-point, 11-rebound, and 13-assist triple-double, but Klay Thompson’s 29 points were also pivotal against his former team. Marshall was happy for Thompson to see him have that type of performance on the road against his old team after the team lost on November 12.
“It was amazing, dawg,” Marshall said of Thompson’s performance. “I can only imagine the feeling he has playing in front of his old team and just being at the home arena. I know he wanted to get them back. We lost in a cup game. So, just happy for him.”
Another element of Sunday’s victory was Irving’s willingness to frequently guard Stephen Curry while providing 21 points and eight assists. Marshall praised Irving for setting the tone for the group all season.
“It sets the energy for the whole team when you see someone like Kyrie take on those challenges; it makes everybody want to raise their level of play,” Marshall said. “Shout out to him. He’s been setting the tone all season and being a great leader.”
Dallas, now 12-2 since their 5-7 start, will lean on Marshall to help maintain momentum against the Clippers. He’s made a frequent impact with his ability to attack the paint aggressively and contain top matchups defensively. His floater has felt automatic this season, while his three-point shooting consistency has only improved after a slower start. He’s been a valuable all-around threat.
“Just thinking about how much more fun it’s going to be when I’m back out there,” Marshall added. “I’m excited to join those guys and help keep things going.”
The Mavericks will look to Marshall’s energy and scoring touch as they navigate a challenging stretch of games without Dončić. They aim to continue their strong form and climb further in the Western Conference standings.
