It’s only Summer League, but Dennis Smith Jr. looks like a draft steal

By Kels Dayton
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Updated: July 10, 2017

Knicks fans are already openly regretting it. And we’re thinking a few other teams might soon, too.

We’re only three days into the Summer League, but Dennis Smith Jr. is already putting on a show worthy of Vegas for the Mavs. The rookie point guard from NC State put up 25 points, 8 boards, 4 assists and 4 steals against the Suns on Sunday. And it was the confidence with which he did it that stood out, as you can see in the video above.

He reminds you of Russell Westbrook, with about 90 percent less pure rage.

Yes, it’s just Summer League, as Mike Breen was pointing out before Smith hit a step-back three over Josh Jackson and his ‘fro in the fourth quarter. It’s easy to watch a guy ball out in Vegas and exclaim, “Wow, that guy is going to be special next year!”

But as Seth Greenberg said right after Smith did this: “Wow, that guy is going to be special next year!”

Knicks fans aren’t even quite sure how to spell Frank Ntilikina yet, and they’re already regretting allowing Phil Jackson to pass on Smith. (Listen to WFAN for about a half an hour and you’ll hear this).

Time will tell just how bad a decision that was.