I could Nick Smith Jr pursue a career abroad? He is reportedly close to signing for Real Madrid. Sporty relay via Cema de Lucas.
Smith hit the free agent market afterward Lakers refused their option on his 2026/27 contract at the end of June.
Smith, the 27th pick in the 2023 draft, spent most of the 2025-26 season on a two-way contract with the Lakers before being promoted to the 15-man roster ahead of the playoffs, making him eligible for the season. The 22-year-old guard played in 30 regular season games and was a little productive off the bench, averaging 6.2 points in 12.5 minutes per contest while making 39.5 percent of his three-point attempts.
Smith also played 18 G League games (29.2 mpg) with the team’s South Bay affiliate, averaging 19.7 ppg, 5.0 ppg and 3.6 rpg while shooting .498/.370/.683.
Smith spent his first two seasons with Charlotte, who drafted him out of Arkansas. Smith appeared in 111 games with the Hornets over his first two seasons. Smith signed a two-way deal with the Lakers last September, days after being waived by the Hornets.