Lakers Converting Nick Smith Jr. To Two-Year Standard Deal
The Lakers are converting Nick Smith Jr.‘s two-way contract into a two-year standard deal, agent Lucas Newton tells Shams Charania of ESPN (Twitter link).
www.yardbarker.comDirect answer: Nick Smith Jr. signed a two-year standard contract with the Los Angeles Lakers in April 2026, with a team option for the 2026-27 season and a non-guaranteed salary for 2026-27. This move converted his previous two-way deal into a standard NBA contract and makes him eligible for the postseason.
Context and implications:
- The deal provides the Lakers with additional backcourt depth heading into the playoffs, even if his role remains limited. The contract type (two years with a team option and a non-guaranteed 2026-27 salary) is consistent with a low-risk, potentially scalable role for Smith as he develops.[1][2][3]
- Smith expressed enthusiasm about finally reaching the playoffs and continuing to grow within the Lakers’ system, highlighting the influence of veteran teammates and coaches on his development.[5]
- Media reports at the time noted that the Lakers created the roster spot by waiving Kobe Bufkin, then formalized Smith’s move to a standard deal; the 2026-27 status was described as likely non-guaranteed with a possible team option.[3][1]
Quick references:
- HoopsWire/ESPN report: Lakers convert Nick Smith Jr. to a standard contract; two-year deal; potential team option; non-guaranteed for 2026-27.[1]
- LakersNation: Official signing announced; two-year minimum with a team option; 2026-27 likely non-guaranteed.[2]
- Yardbarker recap: Confirms two-year standard deal with depth role entering playoffs.[3]