Imagine a team starting the season with a dismal 5-15 record, their former star lighting up the league elsewhere, and a gaping hole at point guard. That’s the Dallas Mavericks’ story this season. But here’s where it gets controversial: two undrafted guards, overlooked by every team in the league, are now the catalysts for a stunning turnaround. Could Ryan Nembhard and Brandon Williams be the unsung heroes saving the Mavericks’ season? And this is the part most people miss—their impact goes far beyond the stats.
As the NBA Cup knockout rounds dominate headlines, the Mavericks’ quiet resurgence has flown under the radar. Yet, their recent 4-1 stretch has them knocking on the door of playoff contention in the brutal Western Conference. While Anthony Davis’ return has been pivotal, it’s the emergence of Nembhard and Williams that’s truly turning heads.
Let’s start with Ryan Nembhard, the rookie who’s taken the league by storm since entering the starting lineup. With Kyrie Irving sidelined for the season, the Mavericks desperately needed a playmaker. Enter Nembhard, whose 14.8 PPG, 6.8 APG, and jaw-dropping 76.7% true shooting have ignited the offense. His court vision and decision-making are elite—41 assists to just 8 turnovers in his last six games? That’s Tyus Jones-level turnover suppression. And his assist-to-usage rate ranks in the 90th percentile league-wide. But here’s the kicker: Nembhard’s pace and footwork eerily mirror his brother, Andrew, a Gonzaga alum. Is this a dynasty in the making, or just a hot streak? Only time will tell.
Now, onto Brandon Williams, the lightning-quick guard whose impact doesn’t always show up in the box score. Sure, his 48.4% true shooting isn’t eye-popping, but his ability to collapse defenses is game-changing. Williams ranks in the 93rd percentile for rim attempts per possession, and while his finishing efficiency (52.9%) leaves room for improvement, it’s worth noting he’s thriving despite clogged driving lanes due to the Mavericks’ injury woes. Pair him with Anthony Davis, though, and his rim percentage jumps to a solid 62.5%. History tells us that an inefficient scorer who attacks the paint is more valuable than an efficient one who settles for jumpers. Plus, Williams’ offensive on/off rating (+7.8 per 100 possessions) is in the 88th percentile. Defensively, his quick hands (94th percentile steal rate) provide a much-needed spark for a team lacking playmakers on that end.
Here’s the bold take: Neither Nembhard nor Williams may ever be All-Stars, but they’re undeniable NBA-caliber rotation players. And Dallas acquired them without spending a single draft pick. That’s a masterclass in roster construction. But the real question is: Can these two undrafted guards carry the Mavericks to the playoffs? And if they do, does that change how we evaluate undrafted talent?
What do you think? Are Nembhard and Williams the real deal, or just benefiting from a small sample size? Let’s debate in the comments!
