Mavericks Discover Unexpected Star Rookie Shocking Fans
The Dallas Mavericks have faced challenges this season, yet they have discovered a promising talent in rookie Ryan Nembhard. Initially anticipated to grow in the G League, Nembhard has emerged as a vital player this season, surprising fans and critics alike.
Mavericks’ Unexpected Star: Ryan Nembhard
Signed to a two-way contract after going undrafted, Nembhard’s unexpected impact has made headlines. The Mavericks initially expected him to develop gradually before seeing significant playing time on Coach Jason Kidd’s roster. However, his strong performances have quickly changed that narrative.
Early Impressions and Growth
- Summer League Success: Nembhard showcased his skills during the Summer League, highlighting his passing abilities and building chemistry with teammate Cooper Flagg.
- Initial Performance: In his debut against the San Antonio Spurs, he scored eight points, registered five assists, and shot 60% from the field in just 16 minutes of play.
Although a knee sprain limited his early appearances to five games following his debut, Nembhard’s big breakthrough came against the Los Angeles Lakers. He made a significant impact in his first start, scoring 17 points and achieving a shooting percentage of 63.6%, including 60% from beyond the arc.
Changing Dynamics in the Roster
Dallas recently signed D’Angelo Russell, intending to fill the gap left by Kyrie Irving. However, inconsistency from Russell has led to a shift in the team’s guard rotation. As Russell transitioned to a bench role, Nembhard seized his opportunity to shine.
Future Prospects for Nembhard
With Nembhard’s rising profile, discussions around his long-term future with the Mavericks have intensified. He currently holds a two-way contract, which has a limit of 50 games. The organization will have to decide whether to promote him to a standard contract as that limit approaches, mirroring a situation they faced last season with Brandon Williams.
- Current Games Played: 7
- Points Scored Against Lakers: 17
- 3-Point Shooting Percentage: 60%
Nembhard has already gained the Mavericks’ trust, and his performance in recent games has laid a solid foundation for a promising future. As the season progresses, continued development will be crucial for Nembhard, who has now established himself as one of the Mavericks’ unexpected stars.
