Why Nick Smith Jr. Could Quietly Become a Huge Steal for the Lakers Next Season

And as the 22-year-old has shown some excellent potential, he could become a vital piece for the Lakers’ roster next season. Till now, the Arkansas native has played 30 games for JJ Redick’s team. While he has averaged 6.2 points and 1.0 assists per game, the 6-foot-2’s shooting looks amazing. 

Shooting from the field, the 2023 27th overall pick had a conversion rate of 43.5%. Additionally, he also shot 39.5% from the three-point range. 

Interestingly, despite so much promise, the front office might just consider passing him on for the 2026-27 season.

Will Nick Smith Jr. Really Make a Good Fit for the Lakers?

Surely, there are arguments in his favor. It is also true that the Lakers front office is looking for small adjustments. But a closer look will reveal some uncomfortable truth about the 22-year-old.

Most of Smith Jr.’s appearances were limited to mop up duties. Sadly, the former Charlotte Hornets star also had a negative 0.3 value over replacement player. 

And that is not all. Till now, in his 141 NBA career games, Smith Jr. has notched up a negative 2.3 VORP alongside a negative 0.019 win shares in 48 minutes. Thus, with the Lakers’ front office looking to up the ante, signing Smith Jr. might not make much of a difference. 

However, with a lot of possibilities galore, the management will have the final say. Till then, fans will have to wait and watch what happens next.