The Los Angeles Lakers have declined Nick Smith Jr.’s $2.5 million team option for the 2026-27 season, making him an unrestricted free agent and increasing their cap space to over $50 million ahead of free agency. Smith, drafted 27th overall in 2023, signed a two-way contract with the Lakers after being waived by the Hornets. He averaged 6.2 points and shot 39.5% from three-point range in 30 games with the team before converting to a standard contract in April. Free agency officially begins at 3 p.m. on Tuesday.
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Lakers Do Not Exercise Nick Smith Jr.’s Team Option
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