Could a familiar face be returning to Madison Square Garden? Dennis Smith Jr., the high-flying point guard who once donned the Knicks jersey, is reportedly working out with the team this week, aiming to reignite his NBA career. After a stint in Spain with Real Madrid, cut short by injury, Smith is looking to prove he still has what it takes to compete at the highest level.
Smith, the No. 9 pick in the 2017 draft, spent parts of three seasons with the Knicks after being acquired in the Kristaps Porzingis trade with the Dallas Mavericks. While his time in New York was marked by flashes of potential, injuries and inconsistent performance prevented him from fully realizing his promise. He last played in the NBA for the Brooklyn Nets during the 2023/24 season.
The Knicks are also evaluating other free agents, including frontcourt players Alex Len and Trey Jemison III, as they look to finalize their roster for the upcoming season. With only 12 guaranteed contracts currently on the books, the team has room to bring in additional players for training camp.
However, the Knicks' cap situation is tight, potentially requiring a trade to create space for multiple veteran players. Malcolm Brogdon, Landry Shamet, and Garrison Mathews are all currently on non-guaranteed deals and vying for roster spots. Smith hopes to insert himself into that competition.
Smith's NBA career has seen him develop into a solid perimeter defender, complementing his athleticism. Whether he can recapture the offensive spark he showed early in his career remains to be seen, but his workout with the Knicks presents a compelling opportunity for both player and team.
Julius Randle's Departure: A Missed Piece?
Interestingly, the Knicks' potential reunion with Smith comes at a time when the team is also navigating the departure of Julius Randle. While the acquisition of Karl-Anthony Towns dominated headlines, some observers question how the Knicks will replace Randle's shot creation, a skill that earned him three All-Star selections. Randle was traded to the Minnesota Timberwolves. The Knicks' ability to address this void could be a key factor in their success this season.
Training Camp Battles Loom
As training camp approaches, the Knicks face several key decisions regarding their roster. The competition for roster spots will be fierce, with veterans and young players alike battling to impress the coaching staff. The potential addition of Dennis Smith Jr. adds another layer of intrigue to an already compelling storyline. Will he earn a spot on the team and revitalize his career in New York?