Webhis ability to initiate plays at a faster tempo than spencer, coupled with his aggressive defensive approach against opponents, underscores dennis' invaluable. Webexplore why coach jacque vaughn values dennis smith jr. 's toughness and defensive prowess, crucial elements contributing to the brooklyn nets' success. Dunked for the first time in a game in eighth grade, a teenager still not quite six feet tall when he tossed the ball off the backboard at cardinal. Nobody has come out and said. The 2004 defensive player of the year said dsj is an. Transitioned into a crucial defensive role, his impact resonates through the team’s dynamics, notably enhancing its defensive metrics and altering team strategy. Is one of the nba's top perimeter defenders and underrated impending free agents. Smith's defensive metrics are impressive, with his presence. May have never evolved into the shooter that mavericks fans wanted him to become when dallas selected him ninth overall in the 2017 nba draft, but the.