The New York Knicks hope Dennis Smith Jr. can turn things around from his tough 2019-20 season. Here are three goals that can help him do that.
The expectations for Dennis Smith Jr. with the New York Knicks were always going to be unreasonably high. Unfair or not, the young point guard will always be mentioned in the same breath as Kristaps Porzingis — the best Knicks draft pick since Patrick Ewing.
Smith is the only remaining holdover from one of the most significant trades in recent franchise history. At this point, unused cap space and future first-round picks aren’t quite as tangible as the struggling young point guard.
But Smith’s been linked to New York since before he was drafted. Phil Jackson had a chance to take Smith in 2017 but went with Frank Ntilikina instead. It didn’t stop during Smith’s time with the Dallas Mavericks. With all the wisdom he used to anoint Shabazz Napier, LeBron James believed Smith “should’ve been a Knick.”
Smith’s role in New York going forward is unclear. There’s no doubt he has talent. Whether or not he can turn things around with the Knicks remains to be seen. Smith went through a lot last season in the wake of his stepmother’s death. A change of scenery might be for the best.
But Smith still has an opportunity to become a part of New York’s future. It’s the fourth and final year of his rookie deal, which typically means it’s make-or-break time. These are three goals Smith should have for a crucial 2020-21 season.