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News - Dallas Mavericks - ljmaverick
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Mark My Words
In a difficult season for the NSL Dallas Mavericks, one bright spot has been the emergence of Mark Williams as a defensive powerhouse. Despite the team’s struggles, with a disappointing 15-35 record, Williams has established himself as the backbone of their defense. Averaging 10 points, 13 rebounds, 3 blocks, and 2 steals per game, he has been a force in the paint and a critical component in keeping the Mavericks competitive on a nightly basis. His presence on the court extends far beyond the stat sheet, as his ability to protect the rim, control the glass, and disrupt passing lanes gives Dallas a much-needed defensive identity.
Williams’ impact is most evident on the defensive end. The Mavericks lack elite perimeter defenders, and their offense has been inconsistent, leaving them vulnerable against high-powered teams. However, Williams’ ability to contest shots and alter opponents’ offensive strategies has kept Dallas in games they might otherwise have lost by larger margins. His 3 blocks per game rank among the league’s best, showcasing his ability to shut down driving lanes and deter opponents from attacking the rim. His instincts allow him to rotate effectively, covering for teammates’ mistakes and making the Mavericks’ interior defense far more formidable than their record suggests. GM LJ Maverick made a move recently to help with the interior defense by trading for Santi Aldama with the hopes it would provide relief for Williams by having another 7 footer in the paint
Rebounding is another area where Williams thrives. Averaging 13 rebounds per game, he ensures that opponents do not get second-chance opportunities while also securing extra possessions for Dallas. His combination of length, timing, and positioning allows him to outwork opponents on the glass, whether it’s boxing out bigger centers or grabbing tough boards in traffic. This skill is invaluable for a team that struggles to get stops, as his rebounding helps control the pace and prevents opponents from dominating the possession battle.
Williams’ defensive prowess extends beyond just blocking shots and grabbing rebounds—his ability to generate steals at the center position (2 per game) is rare and highly impactful. By jumping passing lanes and disrupting opposing offenses, he forces turnovers that can lead to easy transition points, something Dallas desperately needs given their offensive inefficiencies. His quick hands and defensive awareness make him a nightmare for opposing big men who attempt to post him up or move the ball too carelessly.
While the Mavericks’ record may not reflect it, Williams is the glue holding the team together. Without his presence, their defensive struggles would be even more pronounced, and their losses far more lopsided. His importance to the Mavericks cannot be overstated—he is the foundation of their defensive efforts and a key building block for the franchise moving forward. If Dallas hopes to turn its fortunes around they have to finally see what they have in their big man. There have been rumors that Lj may have had discussions on trading Williams. The city would go nuts I’m sure and the gms in the league are savoring the chance (looking at you, Smokey and Ethan lol). Truth be told, it would take a lot to pry the promising center away from Dallas. But, this team needs a new identity. Everyone agrees.