Dennis Smith Jr. aims for NBA comeback

Dennis Smith Jr., a 27-year-old free agent point guard, is taking proactive steps toward returning to the NBA by signing a G League contract in advance of this week’s Winter Showcase in Orlando, as reported by Jake Fischer.

While it remains uncertain which G League team will acquire Smith, Marc Stein notes that the Mexico City Capitanes and Long Island Nets hold the top spots in the waiver order, giving them the first chance to claim him once his contract becomes official.

So far, his name hasn’t appeared on the G League transaction log, leaving his landing spot up in the air for now.

Selected ninth overall in the 2017 NBA Draft, Smith has had a career spanning seven seasons, during which he played 326 regular season games for six different NBA teams: the Dallas Mavericks, New York Knicks, Detroit Pistons, Portland Trail Blazers, Charlotte Hornets, and most recently the Brooklyn Nets.

Known for his athleticism and energy, Smith’s 2022–23 season with Brooklyn saw him appear in 56 games, where he averaged 6.6 points, 3.6 assists, 2.9 rebounds, and 1.2 steals over 18.9 minutes per game.

His shooting percentages last season were .435 from the field, .294 from three-point range, and .741 from the free-throw line.

While his scoring and shooting efficiency have historically been areas for improvement – career marks of 40.7% from the field and 29.8% from deep – Smith has carved out a reputation as a dependable playmaker, solid ball-handler, and a strong defender, particularly at the point of attack.

His ability to disrupt opposing guards and provide a steady hand at the helm makes him a valuable contributor, even if his offensive numbers aren’t the flashiest.

With the Winter Showcase looming, Smith is gearing up to prove he belongs back in the NBA.

The event, which starts Thursday and runs through Sunday, will see every G League team play two games, offering Smith a prime stage to showcase his talents to scouts and executives in attendance.

For Smith, this is more than just an audition; it’s an opportunity to reignite his NBA career, demonstrating his growth and readiness to make an impact at the highest level once again.