Dallas Mavericks: 2017-18 player grades for Dennis Smith Jr.

Final grade

The Dallas Mavericks certainly have a franchise player to build around in Dennis Smith Jr.. He was impressive given the circumstances around him. Nerlens Noel didn’t pan out. Dirk Nowitzki is aging, minimizing his role in the process. Harrison Barnes and Wesley Matthews are coming along, but still, the team is in need of a bigger post presence.

Dallas has a lottery pick projected to land in the top three spots, so selecting an athletic big seems likely given the options of DeAndre Ayton, Marvin Bagley III, Michael Porter Jr., Jaren Jackson Jr. and Mohamed Bamba that could be available.

The relationship that’s been built between Smith and head coach Rick Carlisle is also a good sign for the franchise. Carlisle had great things to say about Smith to end the regular season.

"“He made great progress in all areas,” Carlisle said. “The last 10 games he averaged (17 points), almost (seven) assists and shot (35.4 percent) percent from 3 and was +21 overall, which is a great sign.”"

Dennis Smith Jr. made great progress as a leader for the Dallas Mavericks. As they search for their future, it helps to have guys like Matthews and Barnes in the fold. They were comfortable in more secondary roles on their former clubs. With Smith leading the way, the future is bright for the Mavs.

Next: Full two-round 2018 NBA Mock Draft

Grade: B+