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Nick Smith Jr. Makes Case for Minutes as Lakers Weigh Two-Way Conversion

Coach JJ Redick praised his defense, stressing balance as the path to rotation minutes.

Overview

  • The two-way guard scored 21 points in 24 minutes in a 125-101 win over the Kings that ended a three-game slide.
  • Austin Reaves is out at least four weeks with a Grade 2 gastrocnemius strain and Gabe Vincent continues to miss time with a back issue, tightening backcourt depth.
  • Redick said the roster lacks versatility and that Smith must provide an offense-defense balance to earn meaningful run.
  • ESPN’s Bobby Marks notes Smith has 33 active-list days left and becomes eligible on Jan. 18 for conversion to a standard deal that would confer playoff eligibility.
  • Because Charlotte terminated his rookie contract, he will be an unrestricted free agent this offseason; he is shooting 42.9% from three through 13 Lakers games.