The Dallas Mavericks have officially announced the release of guard Dennis Smith Jr., marking the end of his latest stint with the franchise that originally drafted him. The move, confirmed late Wednesday evening, comes as part of the Mavericks’ effort to reshape their roster heading into the upcoming season and open flexibility for potential free-agent signings and developmental opportunities for younger players.
Smith, who was drafted by Dallas with the ninth overall pick in the 2017 NBA Draft, entered the league with enormous expectations as one of the most athletic and explosive point guards of his class. During his rookie year, he averaged 15.2 points, 5.2 assists, and 3.8 rebounds per game, quickly becoming a fan favorite at the American Airlines Center with his highlight-reel dunks and fearless drives to the basket. However, his trajectory took a sharp turn following the arrival of Luka Dončić in 2018.
With Dončić emerging as the face of the franchise and primary ball-handler, Smith’s role began to shrink. Just halfway through his sophomore season, he was traded to the New York Knicks as part of the blockbuster deal that sent Kristaps Porziņģis to Dallas — a move that changed the course of both franchises. Since then, Smith’s career has been a rollercoaster of short contracts and attempts to regain his form across several NBA teams, including the Pistons, Trail Blazers, Hornets, and Nets, before returning to Dallas earlier this year in a bid to revive his career.
Mavericks general manager Nico Harrison released a brief statement on the decision, thanking Smith for his professionalism and effort. “Dennis is an incredible athlete and competitor,” Harrison said. “We’re grateful for the energy and leadership he brought to the team during his time here. He’ll always be part of the Mavericks family, and we wish him the very best as he continues his journey.”
Sources close to the situation suggest that the Mavericks’ decision was based largely on roster depth and the organization’s commitment to developing younger guards. With players like Jaden Hardy and Dereck Lively II emerging as key pieces of the team’s future, and with veteran additions providing stability in the backcourt, Smith’s chances of securing consistent minutes had become limited.
Despite limited playing time this season, Smith remained a respected presence in the locker room. Teammates have praised his maturity and attitude, noting how much he’s grown since his first stint in Dallas. “He’s a great guy, man,” Luka Dončić told reporters. “He works hard, stays positive, and helps everyone around him. It’s tough to see him go, but that’s how this league works sometimes.”
Fans have reacted to the news with a mix of sadness and understanding, many taking to social media to express their appreciation for Smith’s contributions and his connection to Dallas during his early years. “He gave us some of the best highlights when we really needed hope,” one fan posted on X (formerly Twitter). “Once a Mav, always a Mav.”
While Smith’s release might seem like another setback in a career filled with stops and starts, NBA insiders believe he still has the potential to contribute to a team in need of backcourt depth. His defensive improvement, playmaking ability, and athleticism remain valuable assets — particularly in a league where explosive guards are always in demand.
At just 27 years old, Smith’s career is far from over. Those close to him describe him as focused, healthy, and more determined than ever to prove he belongs in the league. “He’s been through a lot, but he hasn’t lost that fire,” said a former coach who worked with him during his time in New York. “If anything, he’s more driven now. Sometimes players just need the right situation to remind people what they can do.”
For the Mavericks, the decision also signals a shift toward fine-tuning their rotation around Dončić and newly extended head coach Jason Kidd’s vision. With championship aspirations and pressure mounting after back-to-back playoff exits, the organization appears intent on surrounding its stars with complementary talent that fits their long-term strategy.
As Dennis Smith Jr. prepares for the next chapter in his basketball journey, his story remains one of perseverance and resilience — a reminder that success in the NBA isn’t always a straight line. His time in Dallas may have come to an end, but his connection to the city and its fans endures, rooted in the promise and excitement he once brought to the hardwood. Whether his next step comes through another NBA team, an overseas opportunity, or a G-League showcase, one thing is certain: Dennis Smith Jr. isn’t done writing his story yet.
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