The LA Lakers are enjoying an exceptional spell of success in the season. The Lakers have won 10 of its last 12 games, and with the inclusion of Luka Doncic in the side the dynamics of the franchise have improved. However, they are still not willing to settle with what they have acquired and are still searching the potential valuable assets.
As per the latest assertions, Real Madrid guard Dennis Smith, who intends to return to the NBA, is under the radar of the Lakers.
Dennis Smith Jr., a former No. 9 overall pick in the 2017 NBA Draft, spent the 2024-25 season with Real Madrid in the EuroLeague but played only two games, scoring a total of eight points. Reports indicate he is now seeking a return to the NBA. "Veteran guard Dennis Smith Jr. is leaving Real Madrid and intends to make a return to the NBA this season, league sources tell me," NBA insider Chris Haynes tweeted on Tuesday.
The Los Angeles Lakers, who recently signed Luka Doncic from the Mavericks, have struggled to find consistency in their guards. Barring Gabe Vincent, no other guard has been able to deliver constantly standout performances and thus with superlative athleticism and defensive prowess, Dennis Smith Jr. could impact the game by coming off the bench for the Lakers. The 27-year-old has more than enough experience under his sleeve. He has so far played for six franchises and has completed 326 career games. He averages 9.7 points, 4.2 assists, and 1.2 steals across 326 career games with six different teams.
During his last NBA season with the Brooklyn Nets in 2023-24, Smith Jr. displayed career-best shooting efficiency, hitting 43.5% from the field while contributing 6.6 points and 3.6 assists per game. His ability to defend from multiple positions and create shooting opportunities for himself and others could attract the Lakers' attention and in turn he could become a valuable addition to the team.