NBA Mock Draft: Predicting 7 prospects that will develop into superstars

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NBA Draft prospect Nick Smith Jr. (Brett Rojo-USA TODAY Sports) /

The forgotten talent: Nick Smith Jr., G, Arkansas

Coming out of high school, Nick Smith Jr. was one of the most high-talented prospects. An injury derailed his freshman season at Arkansas and he’s now far from a guarantee to be selected in the lottery of the 2023 NBA Draft. While he struggled during his freshman season at Arkansas, there is still reason to believe in his long-term talent as a potential star in the NBA. And that’s one of the biggest reasons why he could emerge as a late-blossoming star at the next level.

Smith absolutely struggled in college; there’s no denying that. However, at the same time, he’s still only 19 years old. To think that he’s no longer the high-ceiling talent that many thought he was just a year ago is pretty insane. If I’m an NBA team that is picking late in the lottery, I have Smith toward the top of my wishlist.

Is he a guarantee to reach his potential in the NBA? No. In fact, he’s probably been written off by many already. But with Smith, the talent is there. And if he finds his way to the right circumstance, I’m willing to bet on that talent once again.