The Mavericks’ guard rotation faced a major blow after Kyrie Irving suffered a torn ACL, leaving a significant vacancy at point guard.

The front office responded by bringing back Dennis Smith Jr., who was originally drafted ninth overall by Dallas in 2017 and made an immediate impact as a rookie before being traded in the Kristaps Porziņģis deal just a season and a half later.

Smith’s initial stint in Dallas saw him average 15.2 points and 5.2 assists per game, but his journey since then has wound through the Knicks, Pistons, Trail Blazers, Hornets, and Nets, alongside a recent season overseas with Real Madrid.

A Low-Risk Gamble Pays Off?

Dallas’s decision to sign Smith is both tactical and sentimental. For Smith, it's a shot at NBA redemption after a challenging stretch marked by injuries and inconsistency.

For the Mavericks, it's a low-risk opportunity to add experience and athleticism to a backcourt currently relying on D’Angelo Russell, Dante Exum, Brandon Williams, and Jaden Hardy.

While Smith’s averages dipped to 6.6 points in limited minutes with the Nets, he impressed defensively during his time in Charlotte, transitioning into a reliable perimeter defender—a trait Dallas desperately needs in the absence of Irving.

Training Camp Implications and Roster Pressure

This is not just a reunion; it's a proving ground. The Mavericks are expected to field intense competition during camp, with Smith joining a crowded backcourt vying for limited roster spots.

With the franchise already carrying 15 standard contracts, Smith’s deal is reportedly non-guaranteed, requiring him to outperform incumbents and new additions to stick with the team past camp.

If Smith can recapture his rookie form or replicate his defensive impact, he could be an X-factor for a Mavericks squad still reeling from off-season adversity.

The return of Dennis Smith Jr. is a nostalgic move, but more importantly, it’s an audition for both player and team—and the stakes in Dallas have rarely been higher.