The Los Angeles Lakers have finalized the signing of guard Nick Smith Jr. to a two-way contract, a move confirmed by both the franchise and multiple reports. The decision quickly drew attention across the NBA as the team continues to balance its pursuit of a championship with long-term roster sustainability. This addition gives Los Angeles another backcourt option while maintaining flexibility, offering Nick Smith Jr. a chance at a career reset after his release from Charlotte.
Understanding the Mechanics of the Deal
Nick Smith Jr., 21, was originally selected in the first round of the 2023 NBA Draft but was waived by the Charlotte Hornets following the 2024–25 season. Last year, he averaged 9.9 points and 2.4 assists per game while playing 21.7 minutes in a rotational role.
By agreeing to a two-way contract, Smith will split time between the Los Angeles Lakers and their G League affiliate, the South Bay Lakers. This structure provides him valuable developmental minutes without the Lakers sacrificing a standard roster slot, a strategic approach that allows the front office to carry a young prospect while focusing main roster spots on veterans and contributors.
Advantages of Bringing Smith to Los Angeles
• Boost in Backcourt Depth: Smith immediately gives the Lakers another guard option behind D’Angelo Russell and Austin Reaves. His scoring instincts and playmaking bring flexibility without a major salary cap hit.
• Player Development Upside: The Los Angeles Lakers can evaluate Smith closely, giving him NBA minutes while still refining his game in the G League. Previous two-way players across the league have developed into reliable contributors, showing the potential value of this route.
• Roster Versatility: The team gains youthful energy and an affordable asset without compromising veteran leadership or financial planning.
Potential Drawbacks and Risks
• Unclear Immediate Role: Smith struggled at times to adjust to the NBA’s pace and defensive demands in Charlotte, raising questions about how quickly he can contribute in Los Angeles.
• Limited Experience: Entering just his second year at age 21, Smith is still raw and may face growing pains, particularly on the defensive end.
• Short-Term Nature: A two-way contract does not guarantee long-term security, meaning his place within the Lakers’ future rotation remains uncertain.
Impact on All Parties Involved
• For the Los Angeles Lakers: This move is essentially a low-cost bet on a player with pedigree. If Nick Smith Jr develops well, Los Angeles could add either a rotation piece or an attractive trade chip without major risk.
• For Nick Smith Jr.: The signing gives him the chance to redefine his trajectory in a larger market, learning from All-Star teammates while showing he can stick in the league.
• For the South Bay Lakers: Smith’s scoring ability elevates the talent level of the team and should energize fans, making the affiliate more competitive immediately.
Why the Los Angeles Lakers Come Out Ahead
From a strategic perspective, the Los Angeles Lakers gains the most with this agreement. The organization takes no major financial gamble, keeps veteran continuity, and injects youthful upside into its developmental system. Fans also benefit, as Smith provides a “what if” storyline – a young scorer looking to establish himself on one of the league’s most iconic franchises.
For Nick Smith Jr., this is a second chance to carve out an NBA identity. Playing in the Los Angeles Lakers’ system, with the chance to learn from experienced stars, could prove pivotal in redefining his reputation after Charlotte moved on from him.
The signing highlights how modern NBA teams maximize flexibility: using two-way contracts to stash upside talent while preserving roster stability for playoff ambitions. For Smith, the opportunity is significant – if he delivers consistent production, he can elevate from developmental piece to meaningful contributor.
