Dennis Smith Jr. has seen his career change ever since he came into the NBA as the ninth overall pick in the 2017 NBA Draft out of NC State. Over the last few seasons, Smith has had to reinvent himself into a player who impacts the game with his defensive ability and his energy.
Ever since Smith came to the Brooklyn Nets this past offseason on a veteran’s minimum, he has been that and so much more for the Nets. With a Brooklyn team that has been surprisingly bad on the defensive end of the floor. Smith is one of the players on the roster that is keeping the defense afloat.
In Wednesday’s 114-113 win at the Atlanta Hawks, Smith was key in limiting the impact of star Hawks point guard Trae Young over the course of the game. While Young still finished the contest with 30 points and nine assists, he was 11-of-24 from the floor, including 3-of-9 from deep.
Aside from Mikal Bridges, Smith is arguably the best perimeter defender on the Nets’ roster, depending on the matchup. After Wednesday’s win, Smith spoke to Tim Capstraw and Chris Carrino of Brooklyn Nets Radio and he had some high praise for what he brings to the Nets:
“I feel like I’m the best point guard defender in the league. That’s what brought me in for. You know, I just try to do my job and win games. And, this was a big win for us today. It’s Mikal’s first win in Atlanta too. So, shout out to my boy Kal.”
“I feel like I’m the best point guard defender in the league”
Dennis gives the Nets toughness and confidence. A guy @JonGordon11 would call an energy giver. https://t.co/WCPIfrnMI5
— Chris Carrino (@ChrisCarrino) December 7, 2023
[lawrence-related id=56304,56263,56128]