Mavericks Discover Unexpected Star Rookie in Surprise Move

The Dallas Mavericks have faced challenges this season, but the emergence of Ryan Nembhard has been a highlight. As a rookie on a two-way contract, Nembhard has performed beyond expectations, making him a player to watch for Mavericks fans. Originally undrafted, he signed his two-way deal with Dallas during the offseason. The team anticipated he would primarily develop in the G League before joining the main roster.

Mavericks’ Rookie Star on the Rise

Initially, Nembhard was an almost unknown entity among Mavericks supporters. However, his impressive showing in the Summer League showcased his potential as a clever passer. This caught the attention of the coaching staff, who viewed him as a hidden gem ready to shine.

Key Performances This Season

Nembhard has already played in seven games this season, seizing his chances effectively. His debut came in the opening match against the San Antonio Spurs, where he recorded:

• 8 points
• 5 assists
• 60% shooting from the field

This performance earned him a role off the bench. Unfortunately, a knee sprain limited his appearances in the following games. Nevertheless, Nembhard’s breakout came during a pivotal game against the Los Angeles Lakers when he made his first start.

• 17 points
• 63.6% overall shooting
• 60% shooting from the three-point line
• 1 steal

His performance in that game emphasized the trust Mavericks’ head coach Jason Kidd places in him. This adjustment in the starting lineup indicates Nembhard’s rising value to the team.

Future Outlook for Nembhard

Despite his promising start, questions remain about Nembhard’s long-term future with the Mavericks. Currently, he is signed to a two-way contract, which restricts the number of games he can play with the NBA team. The Mavericks will need to consider transitioning him to a standard contract once he reaches his 50-game limit.

Last season, the Mavericks faced a similar decision with Brandon Williams when his two-way contract ended. Nembhard’s performances have underscored his importance to the team, and the organization will likely weigh the potential benefits of securing him for the long haul.

As the season progresses, Nembhard aims to build on his early success and continue to solidify his role within the Mavericks, turning what started as an uncertain journey into a promising career.