Everything you need to know about new Dallas Mavericks forward Naji Marshall

The Dallas Mavericks front office made their first signing of NBA free agency when they inked Naji Marshall to a 3-year $27 million contract.

What does Marshall bring to the Mavs and how does he fit the roster?

Marshall has played four NBA seasons, signing a two-way contract with the New Orleans Pelicans after going unselected in the 2020 NBA Draft following a celebrated career at Xavier which saw the forward earn multiple All-Big East selections.

Marshall carved out a supporting role for himself on the Pelicans as a three-and-D wing, this season Marshall averaged 7.1 points, 3.6 rebounds and 1.9 assists off 39% shooting from 3-point range while averaging 19 minutes a game.

With more playing time in a better-scoring offense led by Luka Doncic and Kyrie Irving, Marshall could get plenty of open looks from beyond the arc and could be in line for a career year. However, because of previous limited playing time, it has yet to be seen if Marshall can maintain his 3-point efficiency with increased opportunities.

Marshall is 6-foot-7 with a 7-1 wingspan and uses his length and athleticism to great effect on defense and would add another long athletic defender to the Mavs lineup.

He also provides insurance as free agent forward Derrick Jones Jr. departs for the Los Angeles Clippers on a three-year $30 million contract according to NBA insider Shams Charania.

Marshall can provide a similar role to Jones Jr. defensively while having better three-point shooting capabilities which could make the Mavs offense more dangerous while maintaining their defensive integrity.

The signing capped off a busy weekend for the Mavs as the team had already acquired Deuce McBride from the Detroit Pistons in exchange for Tim Hardaway Jr. and three second-round draft picks.