He had a really unique play style that doesn't work in every system. Similar to someone like Rondo. Just doesn't work everywhere.
Bingo.
Smith reminds me a lot of Sully.
Josh Smith actually has pretty solid BBIQ and talent. He's always been a pretty good rebounder, always had exceptional court vision and passing ability for a big man. Always been a good ball handler. Has the talent to be an elite defender. He's extremely skilled and has higher BBIQ then he's given credit for.
BUT Josh Smith has never seen a shot he didn't like. If he's got an open three he'll take it, even if he's a 25% shooter. Even if another guy has a better shot. Even if his three isn't really all that open.
He also doesn't seem like he's ever really "wanted it" as much as the next guy. Feels like he's out there to collect his cheque, have some fun, go home. He doesn't appear to have the competitive drive to want to win, to want to be the best he can be.
In this league the guys who lack talent but who REALLY want it, tend to beat out the guys who have talent and don't really care that much. When he's locked in and motivated, Smith is an absolute monster - a triple double machine. That just doesn't come very often at all.
Hence my comparison with Sully.
You can cover up some of Josh Smith's weaknesses by playing him STRICTLY in the paint as a pure PF/C and utilizing his inside scoring, rebounding, shot-blocking and passing ability. He can still be quite effective in that type of role. The instant you put up at the SF spot and stand him out around the perimeter you're asking for trouble, and sadly that's what a lot of teams seem to do.
Based on talent and IQ alone, Smith should be a better version of Paul Millsap. Instead he's drifting towards Lamar Odom minus the jump shot.
It's a path Ben Simmons may well follow along if he's not careful, as he reminds me of Josh Smith in a lot of ways. I hope that's not the case, because that kid has a TON of promise.