Full Two-Round NBA Mock Draft Pre-March Madness

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COLUMBUS, OHIO – FEBRUARY 23: Jalen Smith #25 of the Maryland Terrapins in action in the game against the Ohio State Buckeyes at Value City Arena on February 23, 2020 in Columbus, Ohio. (Photo by Justin Casterline/Getty Images) /

Scouting Report. PF, Maryland. Dallas Mavericks. 20. 79. Pick Analysis. Jalen Smith. player

Smith is one of the most underrated players in the nation on one of the most underrated teams in the nation.

He’s quietly put up fantastic averages, sitting at 15.4 points, 10.4 rebounds and 2.3 blocks per game, all while guiding Maryland to first place in the Big Ten. The sophomore has improved greatly with his floor-spacing three, draining 36 percent this year compared to his freshman number of 26 percent.

Luka Doncic would find Smith often as a cutter, and he’s been lethal to opposing defenders as a lob receiver.

Smith sits at 6-10 and could play behind or alongside Kristaps Porzingis in Dallas. Even if he doesn’t get the same minutes as someone like James Wiseman or Onyeka Okongwu, he could still compete for the most rebounds by a rookie. He’s that dominant on the glass.

There are a few knocks on him, lack his utter lack of assists and his draft age, but should be ready to compete right away for the Mavs. I love this pick for Dallas and I’m sure their fans would too.

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