Veteran level guard Dennis Smith Jr. is on the lookout for one other shot on the NBA. In line with Stefan Bondy of the New York Put up, Smith will work out with the New York Knicks this week as he makes an attempt a league comeback.
A Profession Looking for Stability
Smith, the No. 9 choose within the 2017 NBA draft, entered the league with expectations of changing into a dynamic two-way guard. His athleticism and defensive vitality stood out, however offensive struggles restricted his affect.
Over seven NBA seasons, Smith has averaged 9.7 factors per recreation whereas taking pictures simply 29.8 p.c from three-point vary. Regardless of flashes of promise, inconsistency and accidents prevented him from securing a long-term position.
Smith spent elements of three seasons with the Knicks earlier than his final NBA stint in 2023-24 with the Brooklyn Nets. He then signed with Actual Madrid however appeared in solely two EuroLeague video games earlier than parting methods with the membership in February.
Knicks’ Present Backcourt Image
New York enters the 2025 season with sturdy depth at guard. Jalen Brunson stays the staff’s cornerstone and flooring chief. The Knicks bolstered his help with the additions of Malcolm Brogdon and Jordan Clarkson throughout the offseason.
Brogdon, a gradual veteran playmaker, brings precious insurance coverage behind Brunson. Clarkson provides confirmed scoring off the bench. Collectively, they offer New York one of many league’s deeper backcourts.
Regardless of that, the Knicks are protecting an open door for Smith. His defensive capacity and expertise might nonetheless carve him a situational position if he impresses throughout exercises and coaching camp.
Combating for a Comeback
At 27, Smith’s NBA window is narrowing, however his willpower stays clear. A profitable exercise might earn him a coaching camp invite or perhaps a non-guaranteed contract.
For New York, the danger is minimal. Bringing in a former lottery choose with defensive upside offers another choice in case of accidents or depth points.
Whether or not Smith re-establishes himself within the NBA stays unsure, however his effort to combat again into the league provides one other chapter to a profession outlined by perseverance.
