Nick Smith Jr.

The Lakers reportedly intend to decline Nick Smith Jr.’s $2.5 million team option.

Fantasy Impact

Smith will become an unrestricted free agent. He is expected to draw plenty of interest in free agency.

Nick Smith Jr. took full advantage of an increased opportunity in Sunday’s win over the Kings, tallying 21 points (8-of-14 FGs), three rebounds, one assist, and five three-pointers in 24 minutes.

Fantasy Impact

As head coach JJ Redick predicted, the two-way guard saw his role grow in the absence of Austin Reaves (calf), and he responded with his second 20-point performance as a Laker. While he fell just four points shy of his season-high, fantasy managers should likely keep him on the watch list for now rather than rushing to add him. He will have another chance to impress when the Lakers face the Pistons on Tuesday.

The Los Angeles Lakers signed Nick Smith Jr. to a two-way contract on Monday.

Fantasy Impact

Less than a week after being waived by the Charlotte Hornets, Smith has found a new organization. He averaged 9.9 points, 2.1 rebounds and 2.4 assists with a 39.1% field goal percentage across 60 games, including 27 starts, with the Hornets last season. It's unclear how much playing time he will see with the Lakers, as they have a crowded backcourt with Gabe Vincent, Marcus Smart and Dalton Knecht.

The Charlotte Hornets waived Nick Smith Jr. on Thursday.

Fantasy Impact

The move to waive Smith comes as a surprise, as he averaged 22.8 minutes and played in 60 games, starting in 27 last season for the Hornets. He averaged 9.9 points, 2.1 rebounds and 2.4 assists with a 39.1% field goal percentage. With the Hornets adding Collin Sexton and Spencer Dinwiddie, it appears he was the odd man out, but he should be able to find a new organization.

Nick Smith Jr. has been ruled out for Sunday's game against the Celtics.

Fantasy Impact

Smith will sit the season finale. Seth Curry should see more run in his place.