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Real Madrid is reportedly zeroing in on Dennis Smith Jr. as a potential addition to bolster its backcourt for the remainder of the EuroLeague season. The Spanish powerhouse, currently ranked seventh in the EuroLeague standings with an 11-7 record, seeks to strengthen its rotation after a challenging first half of the season.

As reported by Ricardo González of AS, Real Madrid is focusing on signing a guard-forward hybrid and a center to ensure reliable backups for Facundo Campazzo and Edy Tavares. The move aims to alleviate the physical strain on their core players and create a deeper, more productive rotation.

Smith Jr., a former No. 9 overall pick in the 2017 NBA Draft, has emerged as the leading candidate for the backcourt spot. The 27-year-old has struggled to maintain a consistent role in the NBA, spending time with multiple teams, including the Dallas Mavericks, New York Knicks, and Brooklyn Nets. Despite his career challenges, Smith’s athleticism and defensive abilities make him an intriguing option for Real Madrid.

Negotiations between Real Madrid and Smith reportedly gained traction before Christmas, but talks stalled temporarily due to external factors unrelated to the club. Recent developments, however, suggest that discussions have resumed, and an agreement may soon be finalized.

Smith Jr.’s journey in the NBA began with a promising rookie season, during which he averaged 15.2 points and 5.2 assists in nearly 30 minutes per game for the Mavericks. However, his role diminished following the arrival of Luka Doncic, whose playing style clashed with Smith’s. This led to his eventual trade to the Knicks in a deal involving Kristaps Porziņģis.

Since then, Smith Jr. has faced challenges adapting to the modern NBA, including limitations in shooting and playmaking, as well as injuries that have hindered his explosive athleticism. Last season, he played a limited role with the Nets, averaging 6.6 points and 3.6 assists in 18.8 minutes per game.

Now, Smith is reportedly open to reviving his career in Europe. His willingness to embrace the EuroLeague represents a significant shift, as his father previously indicated he preferred to stay in the U.S. and even considered pursuing a career in the NFL.

Real Madrid views Smith Jr. as a dynamic option to complement Campazzo and inject scoring and physicality into the backcourt. With Campazzo’s importance to the team and Tavares anchoring the frontcourt, Smith’s arrival could provide the necessary depth to help Real Madrid climb higher in the EuroLeague standings.