Dallas Mavericks: Jalen Smith 2020 NBA Draft profile

Dallas Mavericks: Jalen Smith’s Strengths

Every NBA team values spacing. Smith shot 36.8 percent over 87 3-point attempts this season. His ability to stretch the floor will have teams lining up for his services. The 20-year-old improved his 3-point shooting by ten percent from his freshman to sophomore year. NBA teams love players that continue to expand their game.

Scouts use free throw percentage as an indicator of how well a player’s shot will translate to the NBA. Smith shot 75.0 percent over 148 attempts this season. That should have organizations believing in his jumper.

NBA teams often point to block and rebound numbers as an indicator of a player’s motor and athletic ability. Smith produced 10.5 boards and 2.4 blocks per game this season. That should leave no doubts.

Smith does well finishing inside. He shot over 60 percent on 2-point field goals this season.

Smith’s potential versatility as a screener in the pick and roll could be a major strength. He can roll or pop which makes it harder for teams to guard.

Smith’s strengths and ability to fit into a modern NBA offense should have him picked somewhere in the late first or early second round in the 2020 NBA Draft.

Next: Weaknesses