2017 NBA Mock Draft 3.0: Pre-Draft
By Owen Nelson
. PG. NC State. Dennis Smith Jr.. 9. player. 79
What a steal this would be. If Dennis Smith Jr. falls all the way to the Dallas Maverick’s laps at nine they wouldn’t hesitate one bit, they would call it in immediately. In any other draft Smith could quite easily be a top three pick but since this draft is rich in quality point guards, Smith takes a small tumble.
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Despite the emergence of undrafted star, Yogi Ferrell, the NC State point guard offers much more immediate production as well as potential, I think Smith could become a multiple time all-star if he’s under the right tutelage. The Mavericks haven’t had a franchise point guard in some time.
With Dirk Nowitzki heading for retirement in the coming years, Smith could be the poster boy for the new era of Mavericks basketball. Along with Nerlens Noel and Harrison Barnes, the Mavericks could have a big three of their own. It looks like Barnes and Noel are very close to their ceiling, but I’m sure the Mavericks will be in the lottery for the next few seasons, meaning they can add top talent to their decent core.