NBA Insider Reveals Why Dallas Mavericks Brought Back Dennis Smith Jr.

The Dallas Mavericks brought back veteran NBA Point Guard Dennis Smith Jr. on Friday through what’s expected to be a training camp Exhibit-9 contract. Smith Jr., 27, previously played for the Mavericks from 2017 to 2019. The Mavericks selected the North Carolina State alum with the ninth overall pick of the 2017 NBA Draft. Read on for the NBA insider’s revelation.

NBA Insider’s Revelation About Dallas Mavericks

NBA insider Marc Stein revealed that the Dallas Mavericks made Friday’s move to secure Dennis Smith Jr.’s G-League rights, which come with the Exhibit-9 contract if he’s waived. Smith Jr. is another training camp player who might even appear in some preseason games, but it’s a long shot to make the Mavericks’ roster right now.

Mavericks’ Contract For Dennis Smith Jr.

There’s a potential debate over Smith Jr., Brandon Williams, and Jaden Hardy when it comes to the Dallas Mavericks’ contracts. However, Smith Jr. likely won’t make the Mavericks’ roster unless he makes a good impression. If Smith Jr. makes the Mavericks’ roster, Williams would be the easiest contract for the Mavericks to move on from, if necessary.

The other option would be for the Mavericks to move on from Hardy, 23, who suffered four different right ankle sprains last season. However, Dallas already attempted to trade Hardy to sign Dante Exum before waiving Olivier-Maxence Prosper, so it’s unlikely.

Final Thoughts

After being traded to the New York Knicks, Smith Jr. spent two seasons in New York City before being traded to the Detroit Pistons. Smith Jr. then played for three teams (Portland Trail Blazers, Charlotte Hornets, and Brooklyn Nets) in three consecutive seasons from 2021 to 2024. The Fayetteville, North Carolina native ranked second in steals per 36 minutes among NBA players to play 1,000 minutes.

Smith Jr. spent the 2024-25 season with Real Madrid of the EuroLeague. Smith Jr.’s career averages include 9.7 points, 3.0 rebounds, and 4.2 assists, along with 40.7% from the field, over seven NBA seasons.