The Dallas Mavericks traded promising sophomore guard Dennis Smith Jr. to the New York Knicks last month in exchange for Kristaps Porzingis. However, there are still those who are wondering on why things din't work out for both sides this season.
Mavs head coach Rick Carlisle was asked this question, and his response had a bit of sarcasm in it.
Rick Carlisle on why Dennis Smith Jr. didn’t work out in Dallas: “He did. He had a triple double in his last game.”
— Kristian Winfield (@Krisplashed) March 4, 2019
Dennis Smith Jr. had a promising rookie season with Dallas last year, averaging 15.2 points, 5.2 assists and 3.8 rebounds. During that time, there is a league-wide belief that he will be the team's next franchise player.
But then, Luka Doncic arrived this season.
Right from the beginning, Doncic looked more promising than Smith. He immediately won the hearts of Mavs fans with his stellar play. Despite entering the league at 19 years old, Luka looked more mature, and it was obvious with his ability to facilitate the team's offense.
Sure, it still didn't result in a lot of wins for Dallas, but individually, it was clear that Doncic was a better player than Smith even though the season hasn't even reached its halfway mark.
Smith's role with Dallas regressed, which ultimately led to his dissatisfaction with the franchise. Rick Carlisle and the Mavs attempted to work things out with DSJ, and at first it looked like they were once again starting to get along.
But then Smith got traded. It was clear that the pairing of DSJ and Luka would not work in Dallas, and they had to let one go.
Smith was the obvious choice.
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