Have Lakers unearthed another under-the-radar gem?

At just 21, the Arkansas product still has room to grow, and the Lakers are betting their system and the South Bay pipeline can help unlock his ceiling. The two-way deal allows Smith to split time between the NBA roster and South Bay Lakers, a path the organization has leaned on heavily in recent years, particularly for guards. 

Jordan Clarkson, Gary Payton II and Alex Caruso all passed through South Bay on their way to bigger roles. More recently, Scotty Pippen Jr., Max Christie and Jordan Goodwin have used similar opportunities, while Bronny James is currently developing well through the G League.

How could Nick Smith Jr. assist Los Angeles Lakers?

For a roster often criticized for lacking athleticism and depth, the ability to promote internal talent is increasingly valuable. Smith’s signing fits a broader organizational strategy, with the Lakers also adding developmental prospects such as Anton Watson and Nate Williams on camp deals, continuing to mine undervalued talent outside of splashy trades or free-agent signings.

Smith’s shooting stroke already gives him a niche that could earn rotation minutes if he proves himself defensively and sharpens his decision-making. For the Lakers, it’s a low-risk, high-reward gamble. With veterans carrying the main load and the grind of an 82-game season inevitably testing depth, Smith will likely get his chance at some point.

Whether he can join the list of young Lakers who quietly grow into valuable contributors remains to be seen. But if his G League production translates, Los Angeles may once again prove adept at uncovering talent others overlooked, a skill that could prove decisive as it balances present contention with future planning.