From Dallas Duo to Madrid’s Potential star: Dennis Smith Jr.’s European Journey
Luka Dončić, a basketball icon for both Real madrid and the Dallas Mavericks, has witnessed firsthand the paths of several teammates who have donned both jerseys. Now, the Slovenian superstar might be providing insights into the latest addition to Real Madrid’s roster, a player aiming to revitalize the team’s season.
Dennis Smith Jr., a seasoned NBA veteran with over 300 games under his belt, is poised to make his European debut. His arrival in Madrid marks a meaningful shift for the former Dallas Maverick, who shared the court with Dončić during a pivotal period in both their careers.
while Dončić’s meteoric rise in the NBA coincided with Smith Jr.’s time in Dallas,they formed a formidable backcourt duo for a significant portion of the 2018-2019 season.
Spanish sources, including Ricardo González of Diario As, report that Real Madrid is targeting Smith Jr. to fill the void left by Facundo Campazzo’s departure. The club reportedly favored Smith Jr. over other ex-NBA players like Devonte’ Graham.
Dončić’s experience playing alongside Smith Jr. could prove invaluable to the Spanish giants. During the 2018-2019 season, Smith Jr. served as the mavericks’ starting point guard when dončić joined the team.They shared the court for 31 games, showcasing their combined talents. However, Smith Jr.’s tenure in Dallas ended abruptly in January 2019 when he was traded to the New York Knicks as part of a deal that brought kristaps Porzingis to the Mavericks.
Smith Jr., known for his explosive athleticism early in his career, struggled to find his footing alongside Dončić. His production dipped, and he eventually lost his starting role.
After averaging an impressive 15 points, 4 rebounds, and 5 assists as a rookie in the 2017-2018 season, Smith Jr.’s trajectory changed with the arrival of Dončić and Jalen Brunson in the 2018 draft.The Mavericks ultimately opted to build around Dončić and Brunson,who have sence become two of the league’s premier point guards.
Following his departure from Dallas, Smith Jr. played 225 more NBA games, primarily as a reserve. His statistics paled in comparison to his rookie year, averaging 7.7 points,4.2 assists, and 3 rebounds per game in his last two seasons with the Charlotte Hornets and Brooklyn Nets.
Perhaps a change of scenery and a fresh start in Madrid will reignite Smith Jr.’s career. He could find the success that Dončić experienced in Spain, mirroring the Slovenian’s journey from European star to NBA sensation. Interestingly, just two years ago, Smith Jr. revealed that he had considered transitioning from basketball to the NFL. Now, he embarks on a new chapter in his basketball career, hoping to make a significant impact in the EuroLeague.
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