In a preseason game against the Sacramento Kings, Dennis Smith Jr. made his presence known to Portland Trail Blazers fans. Competing for one of the final roster spots available, Smith managed an 18 point, seven assist showing against the Kings. According to Jason Quick of the Athletic, none of the other players hunting for that spot have stood out the way that Smith does. Coach Chauncey Billups had this to say about Smith after the game.
“There have been some behind-closed-doors practices and games where some of the other guys have stood out or played well, too,” Trail Blazers coach Chauncey Billups said.