Nick Smith Jr. signs one-year contract with EuroLeague club Real Madrid

Former Los Angeles Lakers guard Nick Smith Jr. signed a one-year deal with Real Madrid in the EuroLeague. The move follows the Lakers' decision to decline the team option for the upcoming season, making Smith a free agent. During his three-year NBA tenure with the Charlotte Hornets and Los Angeles Lakers, Smith averaged 7.6 points over 17.5 minutes per game. The guard is expected to serve as the lead playmaker for Real Madrid. Teammates including Bronny James, Adou Thiero, and Jake LaRavia publicly offered their support for the transition on social media. Meanwhile, Bronny James remains with the Los Angeles Lakers following the departure of his father, LeBron James, from the organization. James' contract remains fully guaranteed for the 2026-27 season as he continues his career independently of his father.

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