Charlotte Hornets to attend Dennis Smith’s pro day
The Charlotte Hornets are expected to be among a number of teams at Dennis Smith Jr.’s pro day on June 15th.
According to Michael Scotto of Basketball Insiders, the Charlotte Hornets will be attending Dennis Smith Jr.’s pro day at NC State prior to the draft. The point guard prospect is expected to be selected in the top-10 of this year’s draft. Although the team hasn’t brought him in for an official workout, this will be a good chance for them to scout the 19-year old.
The Minnesota Timberwolves (#7), the Dallas Mavericks (#9) and the Detroit Pistons (#12) will also be present for Smith’s workout. Other teams may attend but those were the ones originally named. Considering that he is a top prospect, it makes sense that teams with high draft picks will be at Dennis’ pro day.
Charlotte holds the 11th pick in the first round this year. Even though it is unlikely that Smith falls that low, the Hornets must expand all of their options on the off chance that he ends up dropping on draft night. Plus, his pro day is happening in North Carolina so it is a short trip for the team to make.
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During his lone season at NC State, Dennis put together an impressive stat line by averaging 18.1 points per game, 6.2 assists, 4.6 rebounds and 1.9 steals. He also managed to shoot 50.9% from inside the arc, 35.9% from three and 71.5% from the free throw line. He led the Wolfpack in points, assists and steals last season as they finished with an underwhelming 15-17 record.
One issue some teams have with Smith is his lack of size. At 6’3″ with only a 6’3″ wingspan, his length leaves a lot to be desired. Still, that may not be a problem once he’s in the league as it clearly didn’t hinder him while in college. At the very least, I would say it is something most teams will look past when considering Dennis in the first round especially since he reportedly recorded a 48″ vertical in a recent workout.
Behind Markelle Fultz, Lonzo Ball and De’Aaron Fox, the Fayetteville, NC native is the next top point guard prospect this year. His scoring and playmaking ability would fit perfectly alongside Kemba Walker.
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Smith has already met with the Los Angeles Lakers, the Orlando Magic and the New York Knicks among others. If Dennis does fall to the Charlotte Hornets, it is unlikely that they would pass on him at No. 11.