Inside The Matrix: The Benefits of Shawn Marion
By JCook
As first reported by ESPN.com Sunday afternoon, Shawn Marion will become the latest player drawn to Cleveland by the LeBron Effect. Though an official announcement is pending, sources point to The Matrix choosing the Cavs and LeBron over the Clippers, Heat, and Pacers.
In another scenario of a talented veteran choosing the chance for championships over cash money, (much more than the minimum $1.4 million that Cleveland could offer), Marion brings something to the Cavaliers that money can’t buy.
No, it’s not love (though the other kind of “Love” is coming soon).
It’s something that most of the Cleveland roster lacks:
playoff experience.
The 36 year old Marion has appeared in the playoffs 10 of his 17 seasons in the league and although his best playing days are well behind him, The Matrix is still putting up solid numbers at this stage of his career.
Durability is one important number that Shawn has in his arsenal. Last season with the Mavericks he started in 76 of 82 games.
Apr 26, 2014; Dallas, TX, USA; Dallas Mavericks forward Shawn Marion (0) dribbles as San Antonio Spurs guard Tony Parker (9) defends during the second quarter in game three of the first round of the 2014 NBA Playoffs at American Airlines Center. Mandatory Credit: Kevin Jairaj-USA TODAY Sports
Though that is a grueling number to think about for a player of his age, he still managed to average 10.4 points/6.5 rebounds/1.2 steals per game.
When taking into account that Marion won’t be used even close to the 30.7 minutes per contest he averaged last year with Dallas, the potential for what a well rested Marion could do is very exciting.
This is especially true when you take into account one of my favorite role player stats in a LeBron-led offense:
three-point shooting percentage.
May 15, 2013; Miami, FL, USA; Miami Heat small forward LeBron James (6) looks to pass the ball as small forward Shane Battier (31) is defended by Chicago Bulls center Joakim Noah (13) in the first half in game five of the second round of the 2013 NBA Playoffs at American Airlines Arena. Mandatory Credit: Robert Mayer-USA TODAY Sports
By the time the regular season arrives the idea that strong three-point shooters are not only great when using LeBron in NBA2K, but also in real life, will be drilled into the heads of all Cavs fans (if it wasn’t already).
In Marion’s case he brings an impressive 2013 regular season mark of 48% from beyond the arc and a career clip of nearly 49%.
Apr 23, 2014; San Antonio, TX, USA; Dallas Mavericks forward Shawn Marion (0) shoots the ball against the San Antonio Spurs in game two during the first round of the 2014 NBA Playoffs at AT&T Center. Mandatory Credit: Soobum Im-USA TODAY Sports
In addition to all of these benefits Marion adds depth, one of the most important pieces to any team hoping to win a championship.
With James Jones and Mike Miller signing earlier this month, and now the addition of Shawn Marion, only one player remains to complete the ultimate three-point bench.
Your move Ray Ray, your move.
Jun 15, 2014; San Antonio, TX, USA; Miami Heat guard Ray Allen (34) arrives at the stadium prior to the game against the San Antonio Spurs in game five of the 2014 NBA Finals at AT&T Center. Mandatory Credit: Soobum Im-USA TODAY Sports