NBA Trade Rumors: Orlando Magic, Phoenix Suns Want Dennis Smith Jr

Dennis Smith Jr. has long been rumored to be a target of several teams. Now, it seems that at least two teams have discussed a potential deal for the 21-year-old guard selected 9th overall during the 2017 NBA Draft.

In a previous post, it was mentioned that the Mavericks may move Smith, especially with Luka Doncic now in tow. The 6-foot-3 Smith has been hampered by injury, a sprained wrist, and this has hurt the campaign of the Mavs. Critics feel that the Mavs would have one of the vaunted backcourts in the NBA today with a healthy Smith and Doncic.

According to the Bleacher Report, discussions involving Smith have escalated and both the Orlando Magic and Phoenix Suns are interested in a possible deal. With the February NBA trade deadline fast approaching, something could go down and affirm belief of several NBA front-office executives that the Mavericks would end up moving Smith.

When healthy, Smith has proven he could be an asset on the floor. In 2017, he averaged 12.6 points and 3.9 assists in 28 appearances. He also owns a decent 37.5-percentage from beyond the arc. According to NBA.com, the Mavs have a minus-5.4 net rating with him on the court, though, compared to a 2.7 rating when he's on the bench.

The Suns and the Magic are in need for a young point guard and Smith fits the void. Phoenix currently has De'Anthony Melton while Orlando has so far relied on D.J. Augustin. Getting Smith is seen as a major upgrade for both the Suns and the Magic.

For Dallas, it could also be a good move since this will alleviate power struggles that could result with two high profile guards that have a promising NBA career ahead.

After his wrist injury, Smith is now dealing with a back injury. Such has forced him out of the Mavs last three games and he remains questionable as of this writing.

Further supporting the belief that Dennis Smith Jr. is on his way out are reports that head coach Rick Carlisle has grown weary of the 21-year-old's decision making on the floor and the season-ending injury of J.J. Barea. Jalen Brunson has been tasked to man the point more although the Mavs are likely to ask for a guard and future picks in exchange for Smith, ESPN reported. Hence, it all depends on what the Suns and/or Magic pitch to the Mavs to make this trade work.