Before the Dallas Mavericks clinched a thrilling 138-133 overtime victory against the Portland Trail Blazers, it was evident that a lesser-known guard, Brandon Williams, was becoming a crucial component of the team’s offense. Williams, who only a few weeks ago was uncertain of his role within the team’s rotation due to the injuries of key players like Kyrie Irving, Danté Exum, and Ryan Nembhard, has emerged as a pivotal player driving Dallas’ performance.
In the matchup against Portland, Williams showcased his skills with a solid line of 15 points, six assists, three rebounds, and a steal. This performance marked his third consecutive game with at least five assists, reflecting his growing influence on the court. Over an extended period of 12 games, he has averaged 10.6 points, 2.4 rebounds, and 3.3 assists. However, when stepping into a starting role, his numbers have significantly improved to 14.5 points, 4.0 rebounds, and 5.8 assists per game while averaging just under 29 minutes on the floor. This performance comes at a vital time, as the Mavericks navigate an injury-riddled roster.
Despite struggling with his three-point shooting (8.3% from beyond the arc), Williams has made his mark by attacking the paint with determination. With a shooting percentage of 53.1% on two-pointers and an impressive free-throw percentage of 87.5% on six attempts per game, he has expertly utilized his speed to disrupt defenses and create opportunities for his teammates. Coach Jason Kidd highlighted Williams’ contribution, noting his ability to maintain a high tempo for the team, which has transformed the Mavericks’ offensive dynamic.
Williams has attributed his impressive performance to an offseason dedicated to honing his skills. He engaged in film study, absorbing insights from seasoned players like Kyrie Irving and Jason Kidd to better understand the game and improve both his offensive and defensive play. His growth as a “student of the game” has allowed him to harness his speed effectively, making significant contributions on both ends of the floor.
A particularly notable development has been Williams’ chemistry with rookie forward Cooper Flagg. Their effective two-man game has become a reliable late-game strategy for the Mavericks, with both players complementing each other’s strengths. Flagg praised Williams’ energy and speed, which have been integral in their success on the court.
With the Mavericks coping without their star players, Williams has taken on the responsibility of facilitating the offense and creating structure. Teammate P.J. Washington acknowledged his essential role in stabilizing the pace and making decisive plays that prop up Dallas’ offensive strategies. Williams expressed optimism about integrating Irving and the other injured players back into the lineup, while remaining committed to leading the team in the interim.
Williams has quickly emerged as a vital piece of the Mavericks’ puzzle. His ability to generate tempo and keep the ball moving not only showcases his individual growth but also reinforces his potential long-term impact on the team’s success. As Dallas awaits the return of its starters, Williams is proving that he can fill the gaps and provide a vital foundation for the Mavericks moving forward.