Ever since he joined the Nets in the 2023 offseason, Dennis Smith Jr. has only impressed the organization. He has been a rock-solid backup point guard in coach Jacque Vaughn's system, as he provides solid playmaking and elite defense at the same time.
This has been evident since he made his return to the active Brooklyn roster against the Denver Nuggets. DSJ is not popping in the statistical department, but he has a profound impact on the team.
"It's interesting. I think those two really feed off each other. They have a previous relationship. They're able to push each other, which is able to drive us defensively," Vaughn said about DSJ and Dorian Finney-Smith after their first win over Detroit. "So it's definitely a piece that we were missing when [Dennis] was gone. There's a physicality that he plays with. There's an edge that he plays with, that he gives to the rest of the group."
Dennis brings stability as a point guard
The 26-year-old guard is one of the most reliable ball-handlers on the Nets roster. Spencer Dinwiddie is tasked to be the starting point guard, but DSJ has no trouble subbing in and becoming the de facto primary ball handler. That is massive for coach Vaughn because, during that losing streak, the team was struggling with fatigue and lazy possessions.
Playmaking is not Dennis' only skill because he is one of the best defenders in the NBA. He is athletic, which helps him keep up with his matchups, but his tenacity and approach to defending is what makes him such a superb stopper.
The Nets could always rely on Dennis to take on any challenge, whether he's playing Jamal Murray or even bigger players like Devin Booker.
The Nets' bench gives the necessary boost
Whenever Smith steps onto the court, a wave of positive energy sweeps through, injecting pace and a heightened sense of urgency into the team. His ability to initiate plays at a faster tempo than Spencer, coupled with his aggressive defensive approach against opponents, underscores Dennis' invaluable contribution to the Brooklyn Nets.
Moving forward, this approach off the bench can take the team to greater heights. Their starting group has been productive, but sometimes, they need an energy boost. Look no further than Smith to be the initiator for the bolder play style.
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