Dallas Mavericks 2017 NBA Draft Big Board 5.0

5 of 6

Jan 29, 2017; Louisville, KY, USA; North Carolina State Wolfpack guard Dennis Smith Jr. (4) dribbles the ball against the Louisville Cardinals during the first half at KFC Yum! Center. Mandatory Credit: Jamie Rhodes-USA TODAY Sports /

If it wasn’t for such a loaded class of point guards, Dennis Smith Jr. could have been a top three pick in a draft.

Arguably the most athletic player in the draft class, Smith Jr. is like a pogo stick when it comes to his leaping ability. He is an explosive penetrator who can get into the lane while also being able to shoot the three off the dribble.

What holds him back from being higher on my board is that he is 6’3″ with a 6’3″ wingspan. His effort and attitude was brought into question defensively this past season at N.C. State, but it could have something to do with the weird situation at N.C. State last season.

Comparing to Ntilikina, I believe Smith Jr. to have the highest floor while Ntilikina having the highest ceiling.

You can listen to the full Locked On Mavericks Podcast on Dennis Smith Jr.’s fit in Dallas here.

Malik Monk is the most explosive scorer in the NBA Draft.

The biggest question mark with Monk is what position he will play at the next level. He played at shooting guard alongside of De’Aaron Fox at Kentucky this past year, so playing the point is really something we didn’t see very often.

For his fit in Dallas, selecting Monk would simply be taking the best player available. If keeping Curry is a long-term goal, then picking Monk might not be the best option.

Either way, if Monk is on the board when it comes to the 9th pick, grabbing a talent like that would be a steal in the draft.

Next: 9-10