The Los Angeles Lakers have made a sneaky yet intriguing move to bolster their backcourt, signing former first-round pick Nick Smith Jr. to a two-way contract just one day before the start of their 2025-26 training camp. The 21-year-old guard, selected 27th overall by the Charlotte Hornets in the 2023 NBA Draft, brings a sharpshooting skill set that could prove to be a hidden gem for the Lakers as they gear up for the upcoming season.
Nick Smith Jr., a native of Arkansas, was recently waived by the Charlotte Hornets, making him an unrestricted free agent. With the freedom to choose his next destination, Smith opted to join the Lakers, a team looking to add depth and versatility to their roster. While his role remains undefined, his youth, shooting prowess, and first-round pedigree make him a player to watch during training camp and the preseason. In his two seasons with the Hornets, Smith appeared in 111 games, averaging 8.0 points, 1.8 assists, 1.8 rebounds, and 0.2 steals per game. His shooting splits—39.1% from the field and an impressive 36.9% from three-point range—highlight his ability to stretch the floor. Playing an average of 18.9 minutes per game, Smith showed flashes of being a reliable scorer, particularly from beyond the arc, where he quietly torched defenses with his smooth shooting stroke.
A Low-Key Acquisition with High Potential
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A Standout College Career Cut Short
Smith’s journey to the NBA began at the University of Arkansas, where he was a highly touted prospect. Unfortunately, a knee injury limited him to just 17 games during his lone college season. Despite the setback, Smith showcased his scoring ability, averaging 12.5 points, 1.6 rebounds, 1.7 assists, and 0.8 steals per game while shooting 37.6% from the field and 33.8% from three in 25.8 minutes. His performance was enough to earn him a first-round selection, a testament to his potential as a dynamic offensive player.
What Smith Brings to the Lakers
At just 21 years old, Smith is a low-risk, high-reward addition for the Lakers. His ability to knock down threes and create his own shot off the dribble could complement the playmaking of superstars Luka Doncic and LeBron James. While he may not immediately crack the starting lineup, his two-way contract allows flexibility for development with the Lakers’ G League affiliate, the South Bay Lakers, while also giving him opportunities to contribute at the NBA level.
Smith’s “silent but deadly” style—marked by his ability to quietly pile up points without demanding the spotlight—could make him a fan favorite in Los Angeles. If he continues to refine his game and stays healthy, he has the potential to carve out a meaningful role as a bench scorer or even a spot starter down the line.
The signing of Smith comes as the Lakers prepare for the 2025-26 season, which officially kicks off with their media day at the team’s practice facility. While Los Angeles may not be the odds-on favorite to win the NBA title, the presence of Doncic and James keeps them firmly in the contender conversation. General Manager Rob Pelinka has hinted at potential blockbuster trades before the deadline, which could reshape the roster and elevate the team’s championship prospects.
For now, the Lakers are banking on their star power and depth moves like the Smith signing to keep them competitive. With a mix of veteran leadership, superstar talent, and young players like Smith, the Lakers are poised to be one of the most exciting teams to watch this season. If Smith’s shooting translates to the bright lights of Los Angeles, this under-the-radar signing could prove to be a masterstroke for a team looking to surprise the league.