Lonnie Walker IV talks about how Dennis Smith Jr.'s leadership is helping the Nets

Dennis Smith Jr has a vital yet understated role with the Nets.

© Brad Penner-USA TODAY Sports

Dennis Smith Jr. might not be the starting point guard for the Nets, but he has a pivotal role within the team. DSJ is not the most popular player outside the Brooklyn-based organization, but everyone on the Nets would only praise the former NC State guard.

One of the players who spends a lot of time with Dennis is Lonnie Walker IV, DSJ’s primary backcourt partner off the bench. They’ve created a solid partnership, which gives Lonnie a closer look into his teammate’s impact on the rest of the squad.

Thanks for putting on a show, @Dennis1SmithJr pic.twitter.com/8Ob0c6Dx2D

— Brooklyn Nets (@BrooklynNets) March 7, 2024

“June’s my guy, man. We got a lot of dogs and he’s also one of them. What he brings to the defensive side is one to none. He’s one of the best defenders in the league in my opinion. He’s one of the most athletic players in the league as well,” Walker said regarding his backcourt partner.

“He’s a terrific point guard but his tenacity and his ability to get up under players and make them feel uncomfortable just makes the game so much easier for us,”

DSJ is vital to the energy Coach Ollie wants to see

Smith won’t be a scoring-focused guard off the bench like Lou Williams, but he will find a way to make an impact. He does this on defense, as he could match up with any point guard in the league, ranging from role players to superstars.

DSJ provides the hustle and energy boost Brooklyn needs whenever Dennis Schroder needs to rest. The playmaking does not take a dip, as Smith is a superb playmaker, especially in the pick-and-roll.

Coach Kevin Ollie wants to see more “energy-generating behaviors,” and he has that in spades. Whenever “June” is on the floor and defending the best offensive players on the opposing team.

This is what @Dennis1SmithJr does pic.twitter.com/8FFNV0Eg7r

— Brooklyn Nets (@BrooklynNets) March 6, 2024

DSJ’s value as a leader for Brooklyn

Some people might only see Dennis as the uber-athletic defender, but he’s earned his status as a leader in the locker room and on the court. That is evident when he calls out plays and defensive schemes, making him a crucial part of Coach KO’s system.

“He’s a vocal leader. He gets everyone going, even if other players aren’t playing to their capability or not doing what they’re supposed to do, he will hold them accountable and talk to them. I think that’s something as a point guard that you need from players,” Walker concluded. 

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