Casey Smith, formerly the head athletic trainer for the Dallas Mavericks and respected throughout the NBA, is leaving Dallas to join the New York Knicks.
According to Marc Stein, Smith has been hired as the Knicks’ new vice president of sports medicine, a role he assumes after a long tenure with the Mavericks and USA Basketball.
Smith, who began with the Mavericks in 2004 and played a crucial role within the organization for over two decades, had a reduced role this past season, no longer traveling with the team or sitting on the bench.
His departure from Dallas marks a transition to a prominent position with the Knicks, known as one of the NBA’s most storied franchises and in need of his expertise. Under Smith’s leadership, the Mavericks and USA Basketball benefited significantly from his extensive experience in sports medicine.
His move to the Knicks comes at a critical time for the team, which faced injury challenges despite a successful season under the guidance of former Mavericks player Jalen Brunson, reaching 50 wins but falling short in the second round of the playoffs due to significant player absences in the latter part of the season and postseason.
The athletic trainer, is transitioning to a new role with the New York team, where his skills are expected to have a positive influence. Meanwhile, the Mavericks are focusing on their goal of achieving further success, possibly aiming to win another championship (‘raising a second banner’). This move appears to be beneficial for both Smith and the Mavericks, aligning with their respective objectives.
