2017 NBA Mock Draft: The final predictions

If the Dallas Mavericks are unable to make a deal to move up and snag Frank Ntilikina before the New York Knicks, they’ll still be in position to land one of the draft’s top point guards with the No. 9 pick. North Carolina State’s Dennis Smith Jr. falls into their lap here in what could be an intriguing match given the Mavericks’ use of spread pick-and-roll schemes.

Smith is one of the highest upside players in the draft, but there are a few questions about his ability to unlock that potential. Still, he’s an excellent ball-handler who can beat defenders off the bounce with his quickness and dribble moves. He can shoot it off the dribble as well, which opens up his offensive game and can force defenses to bend in different ways. Plus, Smith has high level athleticism that allows him to finish around the rim in traffic.

The biggest concern with Smith on the court is his defense. He consistently struggled to stay engaged at North Carolina State, often losing his man off the ball or not recovering to a shooter on the perimeter. He’ll need to lock in there if he wants head coach Rick Carlisle to play him early in his NBA career.

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