The Sixer Sense
Fansided

2017 NBA Mock Draft 1.0: Volume 2

By Owen Nelson

2017 NBA Draft prospects Markelle Fultz and Lonzo Ball. Mandatory Credit: Jennifer Buchanan-USA TODAY Sports
2017 NBA Draft prospects Markelle Fultz and Lonzo Ball. Mandatory Credit: Jennifer Buchanan-USA TODAY Sports /
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Mar 7, 2017; Brooklyn, NY, USA; Clemson Tigers guard Avry Holmes (12) defends North Carolina State Wolfpack guard Dennis Smith Jr. (4) during the first half during the ACC Conference Tournament at Barclays Center. Mandatory Credit: Anthony Gruppuso-USA TODAY Sports
Mar 7, 2017; Brooklyn, NY, USA; Clemson Tigers guard Avry Holmes (12) defends North Carolina State Wolfpack guard Dennis Smith Jr. (4) during the first half during the ACC Conference Tournament at Barclays Center. Mandatory Credit: Anthony Gruppuso-USA TODAY Sports /

Dennis Smith Jr.. 5. player. 38. . PG. N.C. State

Throughout the last month of the season Elfrid Payton took his game to the next level, I’d understand if the Magic front office would want to build through him. But Payton just doesn’t offer that star potential like Dennis Smith Jr. does. However, Payton has recorded five triple doubles and surpassed 20 points five times but is that enough to keep his place?

Smith had an up-and-down year but he showed the talent that warrants a top 5 selection. His athletic ability is up there with Josh Jackson’s. He has the ability can make jaw dropping plays regularly. In terms of scoring he is far superior than Lonzo Ball, he isn’t of Markelle Fultz’s level but he isn’t far off.

The combination of Smith and Aaron Gordon on the fast break is frightening, both are able to outplay anyone who stands in the way. Smith is a very crafty player, he uses his quick first step to his advantage and finish at the hoop.

Smith’s shooting is okay, but he’s very inconsistent. 35.9 percent from behind the arc isn’t bad at all, his deep shot improved as the season went on. Smith also showed his ability to score in the mid-range coming off screens, this is something Lonzo Ball struggles mightily with.