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Lakers’ Nick Smith Jr. vows to embrace LeBron and Luka’s ‘shoot or get off’ mentality

Originally posted on HITC | By Aaditya Krishnamurthy | Last updated Oct 1, 2025 10:26 AM ET

Jake LaRavia knows what his role will be playing next to Luka Doncic and LeBron James after the Los Angeles Lakers picked him up this offseason.

The LA Lakers made some serious changes to their squad this summer, with plenty of big moves by the front office aimed at addressing a few key weaknesses.

Early in the offseason, they brought in Jake LaRavia and Deandre Ayton, filling much-needed gaps on the wing and at center.

Luka Doncic also played a part in bringing Marcus Smart on board, adding another strong defender with valuable playoff experience to the mix.

LaRavia’s comments should give fans reason to be optimistic, as he seems fully committed to supporting both Doncic and LeBron James in any way he can.

Nick Smith Jr. on his role playing alongside Luka Doncic and LeBron James

Nick Smith Jr., the Lakers’ new two-way addition, spoke to reporters after his first training session about what he expects from his role with the team.

Smith Jr. is aware that playing alongside Luka Doncic and LeBron James means he’ll need to be sharp with his decisions and efficient with his shots. He made it clear he’s not trying to take on more than what’s asked of him.

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“We’ve got some of the best players to ever play the game here. Obviously, I’m not finna come in here, whoopty-doo, and do everything. It’s definitely going to be very quick decision-making.”

“I understand that. It’s either you shoot or get off of it, especially when you’re a young player trying to learn. I still know my game and know what I’m capable of. I got a lot of ways to go in this league.”

If Smith Jr. can provide consistent outside shooting, there should be a path for him to carve out regular minutes off the bench.

Lakers poised to make noise in the West with revamped roster

Nick Smith Jr. isn’t alone among the young additions looking to help the LA Lakers win. Adou Thiero also assured JJ Redick that he’ll do whatever it takes for the team to compete for a championship.

This approach from new arrivals should be welcome news for LA, especially given Luka Doncic’s reputation for demanding a lot from his teammates.

Lakers two-way guard Nick Smith Jr. on how he plans to simplify his game to maximize his impact alongside all-time greats like LeBron and Luka: pic.twitter.com/HAx4ZCQwdD
— Dave McMenamin (@mcten) September 30, 2025

Deandre Ayton has already shared his enthusiasm about playing alongside Doncic, recognising the impact he can have on their success.

With this group, there are clear expectations that LA can contend in the West. Kendrick Perkins has even gone as far as picking them to reach the NBA Finals next year.

The path through the Western Conference won’t be easy, but with Luka Doncic and LeBron James leading the way, it’s hard not to view the Lakers as serious title contenders.

This article first appeared on HITC and was syndicated with permission.

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