2017 NBA Draft: Ranking the 10 most NBA-ready prospects

Mar 19, 2017; Greenville, SC, USA; Duke Blue Devils forward Jayson Tatum (0) drives to the basket against South Carolina Gamecocks forward Maik Kotsar (21) during the first half in the second round of the 2017 NCAA Tournament at Bon Secours Wellness Arena. Mandatory Credit: Jeremy Brevard-USA TODAY Sports /

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Mar 7, 2017; Brooklyn, NY, USA; Clemson Tigers guard Avry Holmes (12) defends North Carolina State Wolfpack guard Dennis Smith Jr. (4) during the first half during the ACC Conference Tournament at Barclays Center. Mandatory Credit: Anthony Gruppuso-USA TODAY Sports /

5. Dennis Smith Jr., G, NC State

Draft Projection: Top 10

When watching his tape, it’s hard to deny that Dennis Smith Jr. is an athletic freak. That’s what almost immediately stands out when you watch him play. However, all-around scoring arsenal is key to his game.

Even though his three-point shooting percentages are a bit troubling – he shot 36 percent on roughly five attempts per game during his lone year at NC State – his athleticism and quickness more than compensates for it.

What The Experts Say:

"[via The Step Back] Smith has a number of ways to create space in his toolbox, both on drives to the basket and to get to his jump shot. What really stands out about Smith on tape is he loves driving left, which makes sense because it’s easier for him to pull-up attacking left, creating a deadly multi-level threat."

Smith often gets overlooked next to bigger names like Markelle Fultz and Lonzo Ball, but I believe he’s the second-most NBA-ready point guard in the draft pool.

To read a full scouting report on Dennis Smith Jr., click here.