Smith delivers as latest unexpected hero for Lakers
Nick Smith Jr.
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Smith delivers as latest unexpected hero for LakersPlaying without Luka Doncic and Austin Reaves, the Lakers won at Portland on Monday night behind a combined 57 points from starters Deandre Ayton and Rui Hachimura and an unexpected 25-point performance from reserve guard Nick Smith Jr.
Nick Smith Jr. provided a boost off the bench with 25 points (10-of-15 FGs), one rebound, six assists, two steals and five three-pointers against the Trail Blazers on Monday.Smith signed a two-way deal with the Lakers in September after being waived by the Hornets two years after they drafted him in the first round. This was only his third appearance this season, but with Luka Doncic and Austin Reaves out on the second night of a back-to-back, Smith was able to take on a larger role, and he took advantage. He came up big late, scoring 10 points in the fourth quarter to help the Lakers win their fourth straight game. He may not play a consistent role when everyone is healthy, but he is worth stashing in dynasty formats.
No Big 3, no problem: Nick Smith Jr. helps lead Lakers to fourth consecutive winWith Luka Doncic and Austin Reaves nursing injuries, Nick Smith Jr., Deandre Ayton and Rui Hachimura lead the Lakers to a 123-115 win over the Trail Blazers.
No big 3, no problem: Nick Smith Jr. helps lead Lakers to win over PortlandWith Luka Doncic and Austin Reaves nursing injuries, Nick Smith Jr., Deandre Ayton and Rui Hachimura lead the Lakers to a 123-115 win over the Trail Blazers.