Lakers Sign Nick Smith Jr. Amidst Luka Doncic & Austin Reaves Injuries

Playoff Depth Secured with Two-Way Player's Contract Upgrade

Apr. 13, 2026 at 4:18am

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The Los Angeles Lakers have signed Nick Smith Jr. to a new contract, a strategic move that could provide much-needed depth in the backcourt during the NBA playoffs. With Luka Dončić and Austin Reaves sidelined by injuries, the Lakers are addressing their roster needs by upgrading Smith's contract and making him eligible for the postseason.

Why it matters

The Lakers' decision to sign Nick Smith Jr. is a crucial move that addresses their need for backcourt depth with key players out due to injuries. Smith's ability to provide scoring and three-point shooting off the bench could be a valuable asset for the team's playoff run.

The details

Nick Smith Jr. has been a two-way player for the Lakers this season, averaging 6.0 points, 1.0 assist, and 0.3 steals while shooting 43.3 percent from the field and 40 percent from deep. His recent performances, including 11 points in 12 minutes against the Oklahoma City Thunder and 12 points in 11 minutes against the Golden State Warriors, have showcased his potential as an offensive spark plug. The Lakers' decision to upgrade his contract and make him eligible for the postseason is a strategic move to bolster their backcourt depth.

  • The Lakers recently waived Kobe Bufkin, opening up a playoff roster spot.

The players

Nick Smith Jr.

A two-way player for the Los Angeles Lakers this season, averaging 6.0 points, 1.0 assist, and 0.3 steals while shooting 43.3 percent from the field and 40 percent from deep.

Luka Dončić

A star player for the Lakers who is currently sidelined by an injury.

Austin Reaves

Another Lakers player who is out due to an injury, leaving the team in need of backcourt depth.

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What’s next

The Lakers' decision to sign Nick Smith Jr. ensures that he can contribute to the team's success in the postseason, a crucial development for their playoff run. With Dončić and Reaves sidelined, Smith's role becomes even more significant, and his contract upgrade allows him to be a potential difference-maker in the playoffs.

The takeaway

The Lakers' decision to sign Nick Smith Jr. is a strategic move that addresses their need for backcourt depth and provides a potential game-changer in the playoffs. Smith's ability to provide scoring and three-point shooting off the bench could be a valuable asset for the team's playoff success, especially with key players out due to injuries.