NBA Trade Rumors: Lakers, Warriors, Knicks Monitoring Naji Marshall as Deadline Target
As the NBA trade landscape begins to take shape ahead of the deadline, one name is quietly gaining traction among contenders: Naji Marshall. While blockbuster pursuits for superstars like Giannis Antetokounmpo dominate headlines, league executives say teams are also preparing contingency plans—and Marshall is emerging as a realistic, high-impact option.
“Keep an eye on Naji Marshall,” one NBA executive said this week. “If you’re not making a big swing on Giannis or someone like that, then he’s a guy who makes sense. He can play multiple positions, guard multiple positions, and he can make shots. He’s one of those role stars. Dallas would move him.”
According to the executive, the Dallas Mavericks are currently seeking a first-round pick in return for Marshall, though there is belief around the league that the price could eventually come down as the deadline approaches.
Lakers, Warriors, Knicks Among Interested Teams
The Los Angeles Lakers are known to have interest in Marshall, along with the Golden State Warriors and New York Knicks, particularly if their pursuits of higher-profile stars fall through. The Detroit Pistons and several other teams have also been mentioned as potential suitors.
Convincing Dallas to part with Marshall will not be easy. The Mavericks value his versatility and physicality, especially as they attempt to remain competitive in the Western Conference. Still, league sources believe Dallas could be persuaded if the right combination of draft capital and flexibility is presented.
Marshall’s appeal lies in his adaptability. He can function as a wing, small-ball forward, or defensive specialist, and he fits seamlessly into systems that prioritize switching defenses and physical play—traits highly valued by playoff teams.
Lakers’ Dilemma: Is Naji Marshall Worth a First-Round Pick?
For the Lakers, pursuing Naji Marshall presents two critical questions.
First, are they willing to part with their 2031 first-round pick? The Lakers have historically been reluctant to include that asset in trade negotiations, viewing it as a crucial long-term chip. If another team is willing to meet Dallas’ asking price with a first-rounder, league insiders suggest the Lakers may bow out rather than escalate.
Second, there is the issue of salary flexibility. Marshall is set to earn $9.4 million in the 2026–27 season, and his contract expires after next year. While that number is manageable, Los Angeles has been intent on keeping its books as clean as possible to preserve flexibility for future free-agent pursuits.
For a franchise constantly balancing win-now urgency with long-term planning, Marshall’s expiring deal could be either an asset or a complication—depending on how aggressively the front office wants to push its chips into the middle.
Naji Marshall Is Having the Best Season of His Career
From a performance standpoint, the appeal is obvious.
Marshall is currently in his sixth NBA season and has delivered career-best numbers across the board. After arriving in Dallas from New Orleans, he is averaging 14.6 points, 5.0 rebounds, and 2.9 assists per game, all personal highs.
Efficiency has also been a major highlight. Marshall ranks 16th in the NBA in field-goal percentage, shooting an impressive 54.4% from the floor. His ability to finish through contact, attack closeouts, and contribute without dominating the ball makes him an ideal complementary piece for star-driven teams.
However, there is one notable drawback.
Marshall has struggled from beyond the arc, shooting just 28.6% from three-point range during his two seasons with the Mavericks. While he is effective inside the arc and in transition, teams that rely heavily on spacing—like the Lakers—must weigh whether his perimeter shooting limitations could be exposed in playoff settings.
If Not Marshall, Who Else Could the Lakers Target?
If the Lakers ultimately decide that Marshall’s price tag is too steep, they will continue exploring alternative trade options aimed at bolstering their defense and wing depth.
One name that has surfaced in discussions is Andrew Wiggins of the Miami Heat. The Lakers have reportedly inquired about Wiggins’ availability as they search for athletic defenders who can handle tough wing assignments.
Another intriguing possibility lies in New Orleans, where the Lakers have expressed interest in Herb Jones. Jones is regarded as one of the league’s premier perimeter defenders and could immediately address Los Angeles’ need for a true defensive stopper.
Jones’ offensive limitations are well-documented—he is averaging 9.2 points per game while shooting 39.7% from the field and 30.8% from three—but his defensive impact could be worth the tradeoff for a team prioritizing playoff defense.
The Pelicans, however, are reportedly asking for a first-round pick in return for Jones, a price point that mirrors the challenge of acquiring Marshall.
Trey Murphy III: High Ceiling, Higher Cost
The Lakers have also monitored Trey Murphy III, another Pelicans wing, but league sources say Murphy’s asking price remains significantly higher. Murphy’s shooting ability, size, and offensive upside make him an attractive long-term asset—but not one New Orleans is eager to part with cheaply.
Compared to Murphy, Marshall and Jones are viewed as more attainable, albeit still costly, targets.
Deadline Pressure Mounts
As the trade deadline approaches, teams across the league are weighing whether to chase superstars or strengthen their rosters with high-level role players. Naji Marshall fits squarely into the latter category—a player who may not headline a deal but could swing a playoff series with defense, versatility, and efficiency.
For contenders like the Lakers, Warriors, and Knicks, the decision may ultimately come down to risk tolerance. Is Marshall worth a future first-round pick? Or is patience the smarter play?
One thing is clear: if Dallas lowers its price even slightly, Naji Marshall could quickly become one of the most sought-after names on the trade market.
