NBA: Looking back at 4 players that peaked way too early

NBA Philadelphia 76ers Michael Carter-Williams (Photo by Alex Goodlett/Getty Images)
NBA Philadelphia 76ers Michael Carter-Williams (Photo by Alex Goodlett/Getty Images)
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NBA Cleveland Cavaliers Joe Smith (Photo by Gregory Shamus/Getty Images)

Joe Smith

Joe Smith was the first overall pick in the 1995 NBA draft by the Warriors. Many may know him as a draft bust that was taken ahead of three all-stars (Antonio McDyess, Jerry Stackhouse, and Rasheed Wallace), and a future first-ballot hall of famer (Kevin Garnett).

However, to start his career Joe Smith looked promising. He averaged 15.3 points and 8.7 rebounds per game as a rookie. In year two he averaged 18.7 points and 8.5 rebounds per game. However, halfway through his third season, he was traded to the 76ers because he wanted to be on the East Coast.

From that point moving forward he played for multiple teams. With his most noticeable stint being in Minnesota, however that had more to do with salary cap scandal where Joe Smith was the center point of the scheme.