Los Angeles Elevates Nick Smith Jr. to Full NBA Contract
lakers-convert-nick-smith-jr-standard-deal
The Los Angeles Lakers have converted guard Nick Smith Jr. from a two-way agreement to a standard NBA contract, agent representatives told Shams Charania of ESPN.
The new arrangement spans two years, giving the Lakers an extra backcourt option as the playoffs approach. Smith, selected in the first round of the 2023 NBA Draft, joined Los Angeles just before the season after Charlotte waived him during roster reductions.
While his NBA role has been limited, Smith is averaging 6.0 points in 12.3 minutes over 29 games, hitting efficiently from three-point range. In the G League with South Bay, he has produced 19.7 points and 5.0 assists per contest.
The promotion makes the 6-foot-2 guard eligible for postseason play. Los Angeles has already secured home-court advantage for the opening round, with its final seed—either No. 3 or No. 4—to be settled on Sunday.
The Lakers cleared the required roster spot by waiving Kobe Bufkin on Friday, allowing Smith to occupy the 15th and final place. The deal reportedly carries a non-guaranteed salary for the 2024-25 season and may include a team option.
Source: Hoops Wire
