Lakers waive Nick Smith Jr. ahead of free agency

The Los Angeles Lakers announced the decision to waive Nick Smith Jr. on June 30. The team declined the option for the 2026-27 season on the former first-round pick, who averaged 6.2 points over 30 games last season. Smith, originally selected No. 27 in the 2023 NBA Draft by the Charlotte Hornets, failed to secure a lasting role with the Lakers after being signed to a two-way contract last year. His potential as a scorer remains, as he showed promise with a 39.5% shooting from three-point range, but he will now enter free agency.

• 4:48 AMYahoo Sports — Lakers cut ties with former 1st-round pick before free agency