Philadelphia 76ers: Re-drafting the 2017 NBA Draft Lottery

Re-drafting the 2017 NBA Draft lottery

NEW YORK, NY - JUNE 22: Potential top draftees Lonzo Ball (L), Markelle Fultz (C) and De'Aaron Fox (R) look on before the first round of the 2017 NBA Draft at Barclays Center on June 22, 2017 in New York City. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Mike Stobe/Getty Images) /

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Dennis Smith Jr.. 27. Scouting Report. Pick Analysis. PG. N.C. State. 8. player

In turns out LeBron was right. Frank Ntilikina has been solid for the Knicks this season, but Smith’s offensive potential goes well beyond anything Frank can offer.

Smith has had ups and downs like most rookie point guards, but continues to give Dallas a capable weapon at all three levels. Efficiency is an issue, but he’s an effective pull-up threat whose explosiveness in the lane makes him a dangerous finisher inside. He’s also an underrated passer in the pick-and-roll, although turnovers have piled up on occasion.

If he can show some growth defensively and improve his consistency in the coming years, Smith has the potential to be the best point guard in this year’s class. Lonzo and Fultz are the presumptive frontrunners in that department, but Smith has always had the talent needed to compete for that title.

I had Smith third on my draft board in June.