Dennis Smith Jr. Reportedly Working Out for 76ers at Veteran Minicamp After Nets Stint

Former NBA guard Dennis Smith Jr. is participating in the Philadelphia 76ers' two-day veteran minicamp, per Keith Pompey of the Philadelphia Inquirer.

The 27-year-old Smith, the No. 9 overall pick in the 2017 NBA draft, has averaged 9.7 points, 4.2 assists and 3.0 rebounds over seven NBA seasons for the Dallas Mavericks, New York Knicks, Detroit Pistons, Portland Trail Blazers, Charlotte Hornets and Brooklyn Nets.

Smith's last NBA appearance occurred with the 2023-24 Nets. He played in 56 games (two starts), averaging 6.6 points on 43.5 percent shooting (29.4 percent from three), 3.6 assists and 2.9 rebounds.

The former North Carolina State star did not play in the NBA last season. He did agree to terms with the Wisconsin Herd (the Milwaukee Bucks' NBA G League affiliate) last December but never played with the team.

Smith most recently played four games for Real Madrid in February, but his time with the team ended after just one month. He played only 36 minutes over those contests, averaging 2.8 PPG.

As for the 76ers, they just finished a bitterly disappointing 24-58 season that ended with the team finishing with the NBA's fifth-worst record. Philadelphia entered the season with potential championship expectations after adding Paul George to form a new big three of with Joel Embiid and Tyrese Maxey.

However, injuries significantly hampered the team, to the point where 30 different players suited up for the 76ers. In addition, 22 players started for Philadelphia this past season.

So Philadelphia needs to go back to the drawing board. Having the third overall pick in the NBA draft certainly helps, but Philadelphia also needs to round out its roster in hopes of much improvement in 2025-26.

Perhaps a veteran minicamp can help the 76ers do just that. Smith is throwing his hat into the ring, at least, as he looks to return to the NBA.