As the NBA Trade Deadline on February 5 approaches, the Dallas Mavericks face critical decisions about their roster, with forward Naji Marshall among the players linked to potential moves. The Los Angeles Lakers have reportedly expressed interest in Marshall, but he remains determined to continue his career with the Mavericks, especially alongside his teammate Cooper Flagg.
According to Ron Harrod Jr. of DLLS Sports, Marshall is focused on witnessing Flagg’s rise to greatness firsthand. He believes Flagg is poised to make history, a sentiment that highlights the forward’s eagerness to stay in Dallas and contribute to the team’s future.
Cooper Flagg’s Rapid Rise with the Mavericks
Cooper Flagg, who was the No. 1 pick in the June 2025 NBA Draft out of Duke University, has quickly become a standout rookie. Since joining the Mavericks, Flagg has significantly increased the team’s visibility following the high-profile trade involving Luka Doncic to the Lakers. Flagg currently averages 19.8 points and 6.6 rebounds per game, earning him a spot in the NBA Rising Stars game during the All-Star weekend in Los Angeles on February 13.
Marshall’s Contributions and Career Background
Naji Marshall, now in his sixth NBA season, has been a steady presence on the Mavericks. Averaging 14.6 points and 5.0 rebounds this season, he brings years of experience to the team. Marshall went undrafted out of Xavier University in 2020 but began his career with the New Orleans Pelicans, where he played until 2024. After a season in the NBA G League, he joined the Mavericks for the 2024-2025 season and signed a three-year, $27 million contract on July 6, 2024. Last season, he averaged 13.2 points and 4.8 rebounds per game.
At present, the Mavericks hold a 19-30 record and are navigating a four-game losing streak, underscoring the challenges the squad faces as it looks to build around its promising young players.
Marshall’s Perspective on Team and Future
“He is going to create history.” – Ron Harrod Jr., Sports Analyst
Marshall’s resolve to stay with the Mavericks, especially considering Cooper Flagg’s potential, reveals his hope for the team’s direction despite ongoing trade rumors. His commitment to remain alongside Flagg underlines a shared ambition to elevate the franchise’s success in upcoming seasons.
EXCLUSIVE: Naji Marshall tells @DLLS_Sports that he hopes to spend the rest of his career alongside Cooper Flagg because he thinks the Mavericks’ rookie is going to “create history.”
My convo with and feature on The Knife: https://t.co/9cG3AeUMNk pic.twitter.com/y2NqrVDn4s
— Ron Harrod Jr. (@RonKnowsSports) February 3, 2026
