Tyler Smith Flying Under the Radar as Strong G League Ignite Prospect
Tyler Smith has taken an unconventional path through basketball. And it’s been one that may have delayed him some, but not held him down entirely.
At just 16, Smith opted to join the Overtime Elite, skipping out on his final two years of high school basketball to play with the pros. In that time, he saw some success, but failed to really cement himself as an up-and-comer in his class.
Now, with the G League Ignite, the 6-foot-10 forward has come on strong, and has the physical and statistical profile to garner 2024 NBA Draft looks. Potentially even as high as the late lottery range.
In 19 games so far, Smith has averaged 13.6 points on 48.6% shooting, most importantly hitting on 42% of his four attempted 3-pointers per game. In addition, he’s adding 4.7 rebounds. 1.4 assists, 1.1 blocks and 0.8 steals per game.
Simply put, Smith is excelling in an off-ball role — stretching the floor at an elite rate — and has the physical attributes that most NBA teams look for come draft night.
It may have taken him awhile to find his groove, but Smith’s reserved game and spot with the Ignite shouldn’t affect his stock.
He might not be as flashy a prospect as Matas Buzelis or Ron Holland — both of which are in contention to become top-five picks come June — but in a class that should manufacture plenty of solid role players, he’ll undoubtedly be one.
And if Smith can continue to expand on his game, which he's shown in recent weeks, he could be a strong swing at just 19.
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