The Dallas Mavericks were just starting their rebuild in 2017. It was the first year of missing out on the playoffs since 2013 and just the second time since 2000. Dirk Nowitzki was slowing down, and the Mavs needed to tear it down.
The Mavericks had the ninth overall pick in 2017. They wanted a point guard and primary playmaker. There were five names at the top. The Mavs were hoping one fell. Ultimately, they selected Dennis Smith Jr. He was only in Dallas for a season and a half before being dealt in the Kristaps Porzingis trade.