Since being selected with the ninth overall pick in this year's draft, there has been nothing but high praise thrust toward Dallas Mavericks rookie point guard Dennis Smith Jr.

Mavericks head coach Rick Carlisle was the latest to toss high remarks toward the 19-year-old concerning his play in training camp, according to Eddie Sefko of Sportsday.com.

“He's learning an awful lot in a very short period of time,” Carlisle said. “When you're a 19-year-old lottery pick who's projected as a starter, there's a lot coming at you all the time. I'm just encouraging him to be patient.

“He's making some spectacular plays and there's always going to be some mistakes you got to learn from. But his attitude is great and the physical element he brings to the team is unlike anything we've ever had at the point.”

He has quickly made a huge impression on the organization in the last few months. This began with an impressive showing at the Las Vegas Summer League where he averaged 17.3 points, 4.8 rebounds, 4.2 assists, and 2.2 steals per game while helping lead the Mavericks to a 5-1 record. During the Summer League, he displayed the unique ability to effectively impact the game on both ends of the floor.

Smith Jr. is expected to take up a large role in his rookie campaign as likely the Mavericks' starting point guard to begin the season. This could put him in the conversation to possibly earn the Rookie of the Year award given the extended opportunity on the floor to showcase his talent.

He also has a chance to demonstrate that he could be a player that could take over the reigns of the franchise once Dirk Nowitzki finally decides to retire.