Dallas Mavericks: Dennis Smith Jr. respects and admires Dirk Nowitzki

Dallas Mavericks point guard Dennis Smith Jr. shared his thoughts on playing with Dirk Nowitzki and where the legend ranks on the all-time list.

The Dallas Mavericks have struggled each of the last two seasons, but that has provided them the opportunity to select two supremely talented young players in the lottery.

In 2017, they drafted point guard Dennis Smith Jr.  He played well as a rookie including averaging over 15 points and five assists per game but is looking to take another step forward during his sophomore campaign.

On Aug. 20, DSJ went to a local Dallas elementary school to promote fitness on the student’s first day.  He also did an interview session where he shared some interesting quotes about the Mavs legend and future Hall of Famer Dirk Nowitzki.  Let us take a look.

Thoughts on Dirk

The first quote courtesy of Dwain Price sheds a little light on Dennis Smith’s respect and admiration for Dirk.  Check it out below.

It is amazing that Dirk has played in the NBA for as long or longer than the Mavs next franchise player has lived at this point.

Smith Jr. will have to hold off a hard charge from Dallas’ 2018 draft choice Luka Doncic to earn the distinction of Mavericks franchise player after Dirk retires.

Where Nowitzki ranks all-time

DSJ was also asked about where Dirk ranks on the all-time and you can see his quote below courtesy of Dwain Price.

Debating Nowitzki’s greatness is always a fun topic.  The NBA has seen so many superb players take the court and Dirk continues to move up that all-time list.  He should pass Wilt Chamberlain for points scored in a career this season.

Consider Dirk Nowitzki firmly planted in my top ten players of all-time.  He is definitely the greatest Dallas Maverick ever and a few more productive seasons could still be on the horizon.

Final thoughts

Dallas Mavericks starting point guard Dennis Smith Jr. paid respect to Dirk Nowitzki in a recent interview.  The young man should cherish his time playing with an all-time great like Dirk.

The Mavs expect to improve their record and push for a playoff spot this season.  Smith Jr. will be a key for Dallas to make that happen.  He needs to be more efficient on the offensive end of the floor and get to the rim more.  DSJ also needs to improve on the defensive end for the Mavericks to be in contention.  Stay tuned to see what improvements he has made this offseason.

The Smoking Cuban should be the one stop shop for diehard Dallas Mavericks fans, so please check back with us frequently for all the opinions and analysis you desire.  Thank you for reading.