The Los Angeles Lakers have officially signed guard Nick Smith Jr. to a two-way contract, marking a strategic move aimed at bolstering their backcourt while maintaining future flexibility. At just 21 years old, Smith joins the Lakers after being waived by the Charlotte Hornets, offering him a fresh opportunity to find his footing in the NBA. Selected as the 27th pick in the 2023 NBA Draft, Smith averaged 9.9 points and 2.4 assists per game during his stint with the Hornets, playing an average of 21.7 minutes per game.
His two-way contract allows him to split his time between the Lakers and their G League affiliate, the South Bay Lakers, granting him crucial development time without the Lakers needing to allocate a full roster spot. Such an approach not only benefits Smith’s growth but also enables the Lakers to maintain their current roster dynamics with veteran players while still investing in future talent.
Adding Smith improves the Lakers’ guard depth without significantly impacting the salary cap. He provides another option behind established players D’Angelo Russell and Austin Reaves, contributing offensively with his scoring instincts and playmaking ability. While there are concerns about his adaptation to the NBA’s pace and the defensive challenges faced during his tenure with the Hornets, the two-way deal represents a low-risk investment with potential for high returns.
For Smith, this contract symbolizes a chance to redefine his NBA career in a high-profile market, providing him an opportunity to learn from seasoned stars in Los Angeles. His involvement with both the Lakers and the South Bay Lakers elevates his potential contribution and gives fans another intriguing narrative to follow.
This decision underscores the Lakers’ continued effort to build a sustainable roster. By leveraging two-way contracts, the franchise can introduce young talent without compromising the seasoned experience needed for immediate championship pursuits. Smith’s inclusion not only energizes the G League affiliate with his scoring capacity but also adds an element of excitement to the Lakers’ storied franchise.
Overall, the Lakers’ signing of Nick Smith Jr. represents a thoughtful approach to roster management. It balances the necessities of present excellence against the backdrop of future success—an approach that, if successful, could see Smith evolve from a developing talent into an essential team member or a valuable trade asset. This reflects the modern NBA’s focus on maintaining flexibility while fostering potential in young players.