NBA Trade Rumors Roundup, January 21st: Lakers Trade ruled out, Dennis Smith Jr. return and more

Dennis Smith Jr. returns to the Mavericks

Dallas Mavericks v Phoenix Suns

In light of intense speculation over his future, Dennis Smith Jr. has not featured in any of the Dallas Mavericks last five games. Nevertheless, the point guard has now linked up with his teammates again, and Shams Charania from the Athletic is reporting that the Mavs have apologized to Smith Jr:

Mavericks head coach Rick Carlisle apologized to Dennis Smith Jr. in a phone conversation, expressing remorse over (the) situation. The Mavericks have made clear Smith has been (a) positive presence for them.

Smith Jr. was selected by the Mavericks with the ninth overall pick in the 2017 NBA draft and the 21-year-old is this season averaging 12.6 points, 3.9 assists, and 2.6 rebounds. He was last year named to the NBA All-Rookie Second Team, although Smith Jr. has recently been linked with a trade due to his perceived inability to play alongside Luka Doncic.