The Dallas Mavericks’ offseason signings of wing Naji Marshall and two-way player Kessler Edwards may have created challenges for former first-round pick Olivier-Maxence Prosper to secure playing time. During his three seasons at Marquette, Prosper averaged 12.0 points and 4.7 rebounds in his senior year, showing strong inside scoring ability with a 62.4% shooting percentage on two-point attempts. While his three-point shooting was inconsistent, he hit about 34% of his shots from beyond the arc during his junior season.
Prosper was traded to the Mavericks after being selected 24th overall by the Sacramento Kings. In 40 games for Dallas last season, he averaged 3.0 points, 2.0 rebounds, and 0.6 assists in 8.4 minutes per game. However, his efficiency was a concern, shooting only 38.5% from the field and 28.9% from three-point range. Though not an elite three-point shooter, Prosper’s lack of rhythm due to limited minutes likely contributed to his struggles. More concerning, however, was his poor inside scoring, hitting only 32 of 73 shots from inside the arc.
While his defense, particularly on-ball defense, remains a strength, Prosper will need to improve his offensive game, especially when competing against Edwards, who brings similar skills and more experience. According to Synergy Sports, Prosper averaged just 1.04 points per shot at the basket, ranking in the 16th percentile, and an even lower 0.74 points per shot on non-dunk attempts, placing him near the bottom of the NBA in finishing ability.
To carve out a role on the team, Prosper will need to improve his finishing near the rim and become a more reliable three-point shooter. If he can address these offensive shortcomings, he could potentially surprise and become a valuable piece for the Mavericks.
