Former NBA First-Round Pick Now a Free Agent
Charlotte Hornets Release Nick Smith Jr.: A New Opportunity with the Lakers
The Charlotte Hornets made headlines last week by releasing veteran guard Nick Smith Jr. The former first-round draft pick is now an unrestricted NBA free agent, having cleared waivers without being picked up by another team. This development paves the way for Smith’s next move, as confirmed by Emegypt.
Nick Smith Jr.’s Struggles in Charlotte
The 21-year-old guard faced challenges securing a stable position with the rebuilding Hornets team, highlighting potential concerns for interested franchises. At the University of Arkansas, Smith quickly made a name for himself as a one-and-done prospect. During the 2022-2023 NCAA season, he played 17 games, starting in all but three, and averaged 12.5 points per game despite a 38% shooting accuracy.
Drafted Expectations and Rookie Performance
In the 2023 NBA Draft, the Charlotte Hornets selected Smith with the 27th overall pick, signing him to a standard multi-year deal. In his rookie season, Smith appeared in 51 games, contributing off the bench and averaging 5.9 points. Notably, his three-point percentage impressed at 43%, although his overall shooting remained underwhelming at 39%.
Sophomore Setbacks and a New Start
Smith’s second season saw reduced efficiency, with his three-point shooting dropping to 34%, though he increased his scoring to 9.9 points per game over 60 appearances. Facing ongoing efficiency issues, the Hornets opted not to persist with Smith, releasing him to explore new opportunities.
The Lakers’ Strategic Acquisition
Updating his journey, Smith Jr. has landed with the Los Angeles Lakers on a two-way contract, according to ESPN reports. The Lakers plan to utilize Smith in a dual role with their main roster and the South Bay Lakers, their G League affiliate. This approach allows Smith to maintain proximity to the NBA while continuing to refine his skills.
This arrangement could serve as a significant stepping stone for Smith, keeping him close to NBA action and ready for potential call-ups. Meanwhile, the Lakers gain a promising young guard with a lot of potential to develop further. Additionally, the Hornets continue to navigate their rebuilding phase, aiming to improve on a disappointing 19-63 record from last season.
