Veteran Punwacht Dennis Smith Jr. Is looking for a new chance for the NBA. According to Stefan Bondy of the New York PostSmith will work with the New York Knicks this week while trying a competition -comeback.
A career looking for stability
Smith, the no. 9 Pick in the NBA design of 2017, entered the competition with expectations to become a dynamic two-way guard. His athletics and defensive energy stood out, but attacking struggles limited his impact.
More than seven NBA seasons, Smith has an average of 9.7 points per match on average while he only shoots 29.8 percent from a three-point range. Despite flashes of promise, inconsistency and injuries prevented him from playing a long -term role.
Smith spent parts of three seasons with the Knicks for his last NBA stint in 2023-24 with the Brooklyn Nets. He then signed with Real Madrid, but appeared in just two Euroleague matches before he said goodbye to the club in February.
Knicks’ current half of the defense image
New York starts the 2025 season with a strong depth on watch. Jalen Brunson remains the cornerstone and the floor leader of the team. The Knicks strengthened his support with the additions of Malcolm Brogdon and Jordan Clarkson during the low season.
Brogdon, a regular experienced playmaker, brings valuable insurance behind Brunson. Clarkson adds proven scoring from the bank. Together they give New York one of the deeper defenses of the competition.
Nevertheless, the Knicks hold an open door for Smith. His defensive capacity and experience can still cut him a situational role if he impresses during training and training camp.
Fighting for a comeback
At 27 the NBA window of Smith is narrowing, but his determination remains clear. Successful training could give him a training camp invitation or even a non-godified contract.
The risk is minimal for New York. Introducing a former lottery pick with defensive benefit offers another option in the event of injuries or depth problems.
Whether Smith is recovering in the NBA remains uncertain, but his efforts to fight back in the competition adds another chapter to a career that is defined by perseverance.
#Knicks #organize #training #Dennis #Smith