Jan 9, 2015; Milwaukee, WI, USA; Milwaukee Bucks guard Kendall Marshall (5) reacts after making a basket during the second quarter against the Minnesota Timberwolves at BMO Harris Bradley Center. Mandatory Credit: Jeff Hanisch-USA TODAY Sports
On the court
Unfortunately for Marshall, he has yet to be given a whole lot of opportunity. He was playing very well for the Los Angeles Lakers in 2013-14, but — as mentioned earlier — was unable to really keep that going with the Bucks last season due to an injury.
Playing time has also been a reason that Marshall hasn’t played all that well yet, as he hasn’t broken 15 minutes per game in more than one season of his career, making it tough to get his statistics up.
Despite this, looking at his stats per 36 minutes, he has improved his scoring every season, and we should be expecting him to do the same this season. As I said, I’m expecting him to make the final roster, and I’m also expecting him to get comparable minutes to his season with the Lakers, when he played 29 per game.
Marshall brings accurate shooting to the Sixers, something they definitely need to bolster their offense. Marshall shot above 50% from the two-point zone last season, and 39% from three.
Additionally, he has the potential to give the Sixers a lot of points, as even last year with less than 15 minutes per game he attempted four three pointers per game.
He’s not the most balanced shooter as far as shot selection goes. In 2014, most of his shots were at the rim, or three pointers. From 3 feet all the way to the three point zone, he doesn’t take many shots. His reluctancy to shoot mid-range will hopefully be changed this season, so he can make himself a better offensive threat.
One thing you’ll notice on his fast break plays is he can get from one end of the court to the next very quickly. He’s no John Wall, but he appears to be pretty quick.
Marshall is an eyes up player that refuses to assume a play is over. When you think he might be taking a shot, he’s often still looking at options to pass. Marshall always appears to be analyzing his options, and taking what’s best for the team. He’s a proven leader, in this way.
Another positive thing we can look at is how well he worked with Pau Gasol. Gasol could be considered a traditional big man, just like Jahlil Okafor, so we can get excited to see Marshall feeding Okafor the ball in the paint.
Next: Chance At Being The Starter?