"This is why the Mavericks should be glad they have Shawn Marion.

With Caron Butler out with an injury, Marion was able to slip into the starting lineup and come up with a very efficient and workmanlike 20 points and seven rebounds. His energy seemed contagious as the Mavericks were active on both ends of the court.

Marion has been commendable in the way he's handled the move to the bench. But it's nice to know that he hasn't forgotten how to step into the lineup and be a force.

A team's depth doesn't always show up when you have everybody healthy and there are too many bodies to fit into too few minutes."