Mavericks reportedly unlikely to trade Dennis Smith despite willingness

The Dallas Mavericks are believed to be interested in trading former first-round pick Dennis Smith Jr., but that does not mean they will be able to find a suitor before the end of the season.

Tim Cato of The Athletic reported over the weekend that the trade rumors surrounding Smith have been real, but it is more likely than not that the former North Carolina State star will at least finish the year in Dallas. Cato adds that Mavericks owner Mark Cuban wants to win as soon as possible, and the belief is that Smith is a player who will need some time to develop.

Smith averaged 15.2 points in his rookie season last year after the Mavs drafted him with the No. 9 overall pick, but his defense has been erratic at times and he seems to struggle with the pick-and-roll offense. He is averaging 13.1 points and 3.9 assists per game this season and has not really taken a leap in his second year.

While he has shown plenty of flashes of being a great player, there are questions about whether Smith can coexist with Luka Doncic. The Mavericks view Doncic as their future franchise cornerstone, so it makes sense that they would explore trade possibilities for Smith if that is the case. Smith has had the respect of one of the biggest stars for quite some time, so perhaps a team will make Dallas a worthwhile offer for the 21-year-old.