Dallas Mavericks 2017 NBA Draft Big Board 5.0

4 of 6

Mar 19, 2017; Greenville, SC, USA; Duke Blue Devils forward Jayson Tatum (0) reacts after a three point basket during the first half in the second round of the 2017 NCAA Tournament at Bon Secours Wellness Arena. Mandatory Credit: Bob Donnan-USA TODAY Sports /

This is where it gets interesting for me.

Many people might have Dennis Smith Jr. at this spot on the Mavs big board, but I’m still going with the best player available in Jayson Tatum.

Tatum might not be the best fit alongside of Harrison Barnes, but the long-term potential and talent of Tatum would be something you draft and fit into your system. Whether it is coming off the bench as the focus point of the second unit or starting alongside of Barnes, Tatum can be a special talent.

If the four players above are gone and Tatum is on the board, Dallas should take Tatum.

There hasn’t been a prospect connected to the Dallas Mavericks more than Frank Ntilikina.

The 6’5″ point guard with a 7’1″ wingspan from France is arguably the biggest mystery in the draft as the latest international player who comes from a lesser talented league.

Ntilikina is known for his frame as a point guard, but is impressive from the outside also as he can play both guard positions. Dennis Smith Jr. might be more explosive, but the combination of Ntilikina’s frame and defensive potential makes him a unique prospect for Dallas.

I would take him over both Jonathan Isaac and Smith Jr.

Next: 7-8