Dallas Mavericks signing told he needs ‘monster training camp’ to win over Jason Kidd for 2025-26

Marc Stein says Dennis Smith Jr. needs impressive showing to ‘force his way onto Dallas’ roster’

Dennis Smith Jr. agreed to a one-year deal to return to the Mavericks.

The Mavericks drafted Smith Jr. in 2017, a year before Doncic, and he spent a season and a half with the team, becoming a fan favorite.

Smith Jr. will once again get a shot in Dallas. However, he’s going to need a big performance in training camp to earn a spot on the Mavericks roster, according to NBA insider Marc Stein.

“Smith, though, needs a monster training camp to force his way onto Dallas’ roster. He’ll likely be on an Exhibit 9 deal like Malcolm Brogdon with New York…but on a team with no room.

“Among Dallas’ motivations for signing Smith, sources say, was securing his G League rights,” he added.

“The Mavericks went to significant lengths (releasing former first-round pick Olivier-Maxence Prosper) just to create the room to re-sign Dante Exum.

“Signing Smith now makes him eligible to play for the Texas Legends if he can’t crack the Mavericks’ Opening Night 15-man roster.”

Dennis Smith Jr.’s career stats

Smith Jr. has not been able to find his footing in the NBA.

He has played for six different teams in the span of seven years, having stints with the Mavericks, New York Knicks, Detroit Pistons, Portland Trail Blazers, Charlotte Hornets and Brooklyn Nets.

Smith Jr. has averaged 9.7 points, 4.2 assists and 3.0 rebounds in 326 regular-season games.

If Smith Jr. wants to remain in Dallas for this season, he’s going to have to earn his spot.