Mavericks' Yogi Ferrell: Headed back to starting role Friday

Ferrell is expected to serve as the Mavericks' starting point guard in Friday's game against the Timberwolves, Dwain Price of the Fort Worth Star-Telegram reports.

Analysis:

After failing to find any trade partners for starting point guard Deron Williams prior to Thursday's deadline, the Mavericks opted to waive the veteran, who was on an expiring contract and wasn't a part of the team's future plans. The removal of Williams from the roster and J.J. Barea's (calf) absence for at least the next three games leaves a clear path to the starting role for Ferrell, who has been a stellar performer for the Mavericks since first inking a 10-day contract with the team back in January. Ferrell is averaging 14.2 points, 4.6 assists, 3.0 rebounds, 2.2 three-pointers and 1.5 steals in 33.2 minutes per game in his 10 appearances with the Mavericks, and it looks like he'll be on tap for a sizable role with the top unit until at least Barea returns, so it may be worthwhile to keep him active across all league formats for the time being.