Los Angeles Lakers Sign Guard Nick Smith Jr. to Two-Year Contract
The Los Angeles Lakers have signed guard Nick Smith Jr. to a two-year contract, according to Lucas Newton of Klutch Sports. The move adds guard depth for the playoffs amid injuries to Luka Doncic and Austin Reaves. Smith averaged 6 points and 40% from three-point range this season.
Rick Meyer, Los Angeles Times / Wikimedia (CC BY 4.0)The Los Angeles Lakers announced the signing of guard Nick Smith Jr. to a two-year contract. Lucas Newton of Klutch Sports reported the details to ESPN. The agreement provides the team with additional guard options as they prepare for the playoffs.
Luka Doncic and Austin Reaves are currently sidelined due to injuries. This has created a need for more depth in the backcourt for the Lakers. , who plays as a two-way guard, joins the roster to help address this gap.
Player Performance and Background During the 2025-2026 season, Smith Jr.
has averaged 6 points per game. He shot 40% from three-point range in his appearances. These statistics reflect his contributions prior to the signing. The Lakers' decision comes at a critical time in the NBA season.
With the playoffs approaching, teams often adjust rosters to bolster their lineups. This signing allows the Lakers to maintain competitiveness despite the absences of key players.
Context of Injuries and Roster Needs Doncic and Reaves' injuries have impacted the team's guard rotation.
The Lakers now have Smith Jr. available to provide support in practices and potential playoff games. The two-year deal secures his services through the 2027-2028 season. NBA rules permit two-way contracts, which allow players to split time between the NBA team and its G League affiliate.
's role under this contract will depend on the Lakers' needs during the postseason. The team has not released further details on his immediate playing time.
Story Timeline
3 events- April 12, 2026
Los Angeles Lakers sign Nick Smith Jr. to a two-year contract.
1 source@ShamsCharania - 2025-2026 season
Nick Smith Jr. averages 6 points and 40% from three-point range.
1 source@ShamsCharania - Recent
Luka Doncic and Austin Reaves are sidelined by injuries.
1 source@ShamsCharania
Potential Impact
- 01
Team addresses backcourt depth amid key player injuries.
- 02
Lakers gain additional guard options for playoff rotation.
- 03
Smith Jr. may split time between NBA and G League roster.
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