Ryan Nembhard was recently thrust into a major role with the Dallas Mavericks, and the undrafted guard from Gonzaga has made the most of those minutes.
Nembhard has started at point guard for coach Jason Kidd in each of the past six games, averaging 14.8 points, 6.8 assists and 2.5 rebounds while shooting 68.2% from 3-point range (15-of-22). The Mavericks are 4-2 over that span, including their first three-game win streak.
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The 6-footer impressed Kidd throughout training camp with his ability as a floor general who can make plays for others. He earned the trust of Kidd and the rest of the team during those early practices and preseason appearances and is playing a crucial role for the group.
“You look at just his ability to run the offense,” Kidd said on Monday. “He is steady. Guys love playing with him. He is taking shots that present themselves. He is playing the game at a very high level and the right way.”
Nembhard, signed to a two-way contract, made only six appearances before being inserted into the starting lineup and, at one point, had gone eight straight contests without playing for Kidd. He has given the first five stability on offense as an initiator, while also creating for himself.
The 22-year-old last week became the first undrafted rookie with at least 15 points and 10 assists in consecutive games in history. With each productive appearance, Nembhard is quickly becoming a player opposing teams must account for on a nightly basis.
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“I think I’m definitely on the scouting report now,” Nembhard said on Monday. “We got so many good players that I’m sure their attention is more on those guys than on me. But there is a little bit more attention on me.”
Nembhard is averaging 8.9 points, 4.8 assists and 1.6 rebounds on 53.6% shooting from 3-point range with the Mavericks. He ranks ninth among all rookies in assists (57) and is the only first-year player with at least 25 points and 10 assists in a game this season.
After a productive start to his rookie campaign, the organization is reportedly committed to eventually converting Nembhard to a standard contract. He has played a key role and looks to have secured his long-term future in the process.
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“I just always try to play the game the right way, ever since I was a kid,” Nembhard said. “My dad was my coach growing up, and he always instilled in us to play the right way and make the right play. I’m happy all of these guys like to play with me, and I’m going to continue to try to make the right play out there on the court.”
This article originally appeared on Rookie Wire: Mavericks news: Jason Kidd reveals impact of rookie Ryan Nembhard