Dallas Mavericks Waive Dalano Banton, Jeremiah Robinson-Earl And Dennis Smith Jr.
The Dallas Mavericks waived Dalano Banton, Jeremiah Robinson-Earl, and Dennis Smith Jr. on Friday as the team trimmed its roster ahead of opening night.
Banton appeared in one preseason game against the Los Angeles Lakers on Oct. 15, finishing with three points, two rebounds, one assist, and one steal in six minutes.
Robinson-Earl played in all four of Dallas’ preseason games and averaged 7.3 points, 4.0 rebounds and 1.3 assists in 12.2 minutes per game. He had nine points on 4-of-5 shooting and three assists in eight minutes against the Charlotte Hornets on Oct. 11.
Smith, who returned to the franchise that drafted him ninth overall in 2017, saw action in two preseason contests and averaged 1.5 rebounds and 2.0 assists in 7.4 minutes per game. He suffered an injury early in training camp but made a strong impression with his defensive intensity and leadership.
Dennis Smith Jr.’s Return and G League Future
Sources told DallasHoopsJournal.com that the Wisconsin Herd still own Smith’s G League rights, meaning the Texas Legends would need to complete a trade to acquire them if they wish to add him to their roster. The Mavericks, however, do hold the G League rights to both Robinson-Earl and Banton.
Smith said he felt he rediscovered his rhythm and confidence during camp after spending last year away from NBA action.
“I did a mini-camp out here in Dallas and that went well,” Smith told RG.org. “I had a good talk with the people in high places in the organization, and there was mutual interest then. They had some things to work out with the roster, and thankfully I was able to end up here. So I just appreciate the opportunity.”
He added that his defensive mindset remains his calling card.
“That’s what I usually do,” Smith told RG.org. “It’s not like I wanted people to believe I do this — I’m just coming out to be the best version of myself. People being impressed by it is a byproduct, and I’m thankful for it. But I’ve got to come out and put my best foot forward every day. If that happens to be what the team needs, that makes it even better — and it is. So I’m in a good spot.”
Jeremiah Robinson-Earl’s Efficiency and Professionalism
Robinson-Earl impressed throughout camp with his efficiency and energy while competing for one of the final roster spots. He said he was drawn to Dallas for its championship-caliber culture and veteran leadership.
“It’s a great environment — having a lot of players who’ve won championships and are looking to win more,” Robinson-Earl told RG.org. “Everybody’s trying to get better, and we’re competing at a high level. It’s a lot of fun being around people that push each other.”
He added that the Mavericks’ system allows players to excel by emphasizing simplicity and trust.
“We have a lot of guys — it’s a deep roster,” Robinson-Earl said. “It allows everybody to just be themselves, and that’s the most important thing. Don’t overcomplicate it. Let really good players be really good every single night and just trust one another.”
Mavericks head coach Jason Kidd praised Robinson-Earl’s consistency and professionalism during the preseason.
“When you talk about him being a pro — he should be on an NBA roster,” Kidd told RG.org. “When you look at what he does, he’s consistent. He comes to work every day and does his job. He can shoot it, he can pass it, he can defend. It’s really sad that he’s not on an NBA roster for whatever reason. But I’ve really enjoyed coaching him.”
The Mavericks open the regular season Oct. 22 against the San Antonio Spurs.
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