Nick Smith Jr. Quickly Discerns Differences Between Lakers and Hornets
On the verge of training camp, the Los Angeles Lakers have finalized their roster by signing guard Nick Smith Jr. This move adds depth to the team’s two-way spot following his release from the Charlotte Hornets.
Nick Smith Jr.’s Transition from Hornets to Lakers
Nick Smith Jr. joins the Lakers after spending two seasons with the Charlotte Hornets. During his time in Charlotte, he appeared in 111 games, starting in 28 of them. Over these games, he recorded an average of 8.0 points, 1.8 rebounds, and 1.8 assists per game, while shooting 36.9% from beyond the arc.
Experience at Media Day
Smith quickly recognized the stark differences between the Lakers and Hornets. At the Lakers’ Media Day, he was greeted by hundreds of attendees, a stark contrast to the 20 fans he saw in Charlotte. He expressed gratitude for the opportunity to learn and grow in such a vibrant environment.
Familiarity with the Lakers
Before joining the Lakers, Smith had worked out with the organization during the pre-draft process in 2023. Reflecting on his pre-draft experience, he expressed disbelief at how far he has come. “I was just trying to get my foot in the door,” he stated, highlighting his appreciation for the chance to wear the iconic purple and gold.
Areas of Focus for Development
As he embarks on this new chapter, Smith is keen to refine his skills. He aims to simplify his game to enhance his contributions on the court. Key areas for improvement include:
- Enhancing shooting capabilities to boost team performance.
- Improving defensive skills to better support the team’s needs.
Reflecting on His Departure from the Hornets
Smith’s swift need for a new team following his first-round draft selection raises eyebrows. He candidly discussed his exit from the Hornets and acknowledged the challenge of integrating into a new roster. “Sometimes things are just not gonna work out,” he noted, emphasizing his readiness to learn and adapt quickly to accommodate the established players on the Lakers.
As Nick Smith Jr. begins this exciting chapter with the Lakers, he remains focused on his growth and contributions to the team, eager to demonstrate his talent in the NBA.
