The Los Angeles Lakers and Sacramento Kings have both elected not to pick up their inexpensive team options for the 2026-27 campaign on guards Nick Smith Jr. and Killian Hayes, respectively. The moves, reported Monday by Keith Smith of Spotrac, will send both former first-round selections into the summer as unrestricted free agents.
Smith, taken 27th overall in the 2023 NBA Draft, spent most of last season on a two-way contract before joining the Lakers’ standard roster just ahead of the playoffs to gain postseason eligibility. The 22-year-old averaged 6.2 points in 12.5 minutes across 30 regular-season appearances while connecting on 39.5% of his three-point attempts. Los Angeles declined a 2026-27 option valued at just under $2.5 million.
Hayes, the No. 7 pick in 2020, appeared in 23 contests for Sacramento in 2025-26, posting 5.5 points and 3.5 assists over 17.7 minutes per game. Long regarded as a capable playmaker and perimeter defender, the 24-year-old struggled again with efficiency, shooting 30.4% from the field and 27.0% from deep. His option for next season was worth slightly more than $3 million, reflecting his greater NBA service time.
With these decisions finalized, all player and team options that carried a Monday deadline have now been resolved.
Source: Hoops Rumors
