On the eve of the Lakers’ Media Day, the team revealed a strategic addition to their roster by signing Nick Smith Jr., a recent first-round draft pick, to a two-way contract. Smith, a promising guard from Arkansas, was initially selected by the Charlotte Hornets as the 27th pick in the 2023 draft. During his stint with the Hornets in the 2024-25 season, Smith averaged 9.9 points on 39.1% shooting, including 34% from beyond the arc, along with 2.4 assists and 2.1 rebounds over the course of 60 games.
Standing at 6-foot-2 and weighing 185 pounds, Smith joins fellow players on two-way contracts: 7-foot center Christian Koloko and 6-foot-4 guard Christian Manon. Over his two-year tenure with the Hornets, Smith delivered consistent performances, with notable averages of eight points per game on a shooting accuracy of 39.1%, and improved three-point shooting at 36.9%. He also contributed 1.5 assists and 1.5 rebounds across 111 games.
His release from the Hornets came as they sought to align with roster regulations, paving the way for the Lakers to seize the opportunity. The Lakers are now poised for their upcoming training camp with a comprehensive roster of 21 players. This includes 14 athletes signed to standard NBA contracts and a trio occupying the team’s two-way slots, all set to engage in the inaugural practice session. This move underscores the Lakers’ strategy to enhance their depth and versatility as they gear up for the new season.