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2017 NBA Mock Draft: What if the Lakers don’t take Lonzo Ball?

By Chris Stone

Jan 25, 2017; Tempe, AZ, USA; Washington Huskies guard Markelle Fultz (20) dribbles the ball against the Arizona State Sun Devils during the second half at Wells-Fargo Arena. The Sun Devils won 86-75. Mandatory Credit: Joe Camporeale-USA TODAY Sports
Jan 25, 2017; Tempe, AZ, USA; Washington Huskies guard Markelle Fultz (20) dribbles the ball against the Arizona State Sun Devils during the second half at Wells-Fargo Arena. The Sun Devils won 86-75. Mandatory Credit: Joe Camporeale-USA TODAY Sports /
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Feb 15, 2017; Raleigh, NC, USA; North Carolina State Wolfpack guard Dennis Smith Jr. (4) is fouled by North Carolina Tar Heels forward Theo Pinson (1) during the first half at PNC Arena. Mandatory Credit: Rob Kinnan-USA TODAY Sports
Feb 15, 2017; Raleigh, NC, USA; North Carolina State Wolfpack guard Dennis Smith Jr. (4) is fouled by North Carolina Tar Heels forward Theo Pinson (1) during the first half at PNC Arena. Mandatory Credit: Rob Kinnan-USA TODAY Sports /
Learn more about Dennis Smith Jr. at The Step Back.

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Dennis Smith Jr.

PG, North Carolina State

With Markelle Fultz, De’Aaron Fox and Lonzo Ball off the board already, North Carolina State’s Dennis Smith Jr. becomes the obvious selection for the Sacramento Kings, another franchise that could use a lead guard of the future. Smith’s physical strength and athleticism give him one of the highest upsides in the draft, but he struggled to actualize that potential with the Wolfpack this season.

Still, Smith was good! He averaged 20.8 points and 7.1 assists per 40 minutes while showing an impressive ability to use his burst to get into the lane. Smith plays low to the ground and has the strength to finish through contact. He is also a solid shooter off the dribble, which can open up his offensive attack. Like Fultz, Smith is a three level scorer whereas both Ball and Fox have questions marks in at least one area.

The question that remains is whether or not Smith can reach his ceiling. He didn’t exactly make his teammates better at North Carolina State, he hardly tried on defense and he occasionally faded in and out off possessions on offense. If Smith is willing to embrace the challenge, he can be an NBA All-Star, but is he ready to do that?

Learn more about Dennis Smith Jr. at The Step Back.