NBA: 8 players who will breakout during the post-All-Star playoff push

NBA Boston Celtics Gordon Hayward (Photo by Maddie Meyer/Getty Images)
NBA Boston Celtics Gordon Hayward (Photo by Maddie Meyer/Getty Images)
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NBA Dallas Mavericks Dennis Smith Jr. (Photo by Abbie Parr/Getty Images

Dennis Smith Jr., New York Knicks

Pre all-star numbers: 13.7 ppg, 3.0 rpg, 4.6 apg, 1.3 spg, 0.4 bpg, .437/.331/.643

Things didn’t work out for Dennis Smith Jr. in Dallas but now he’s in a new city with a new team and a chance at a fresh start to rejuvenate his young career, reminding all of us that he has what it takes to become a star in this league.

Now in New York, this seems like the perfect opportunity for Smith to do just that. The team is tanking and does not have very many legitimate offensive weapons so lack of opportunity will certainly not be a problem for the young point guard.

Despite his statistical regression in his second year, Dennis’ efficiency has gone up so hopefully with an increased role on offence, he should begin to show more consistent flashes of stardom.

Post all-star numbers (prediction): 18 ppg, 3-4 rpg, 6 apg, 43% fg, 35% 3 pt, 70% ft