SPORTS

Lakers add Nick Smith Jr., clinch fourth seed

PUBLISHED Apr 12, 2026, 4:37 PM ET

Read, Watch or Listen

Media Bias Meter

Sources: 10

Center 100%

Sources: 10

LOS ANGELES — The Los Angeles Lakers signed guard Nick Smith Jr. to a two-year contract this week, converting his two-way deal into a standard NBA contract to fill the club's 15th roster spot ahead of the postseason, and waived guard Kobe Bufkin on Friday to create room before the regular season ended Sunday. The Lakers closed the regular season with a 131-107 win over the Utah Jazz on Sunday, secured the No. 4 seed in the Western Conference after the Denver Nuggets' loss to San Antonio, and will host the fifth-seed Houston Rockets in the first round on April 18 or April 19; LeBron James and Luke Kennard were limited as a precaution in the finale.

By Lauren Mitchell | JQJO News

Timeline of Events

April 2: Team injuries reported, including Austin Reaves' left oblique strain.
Early April (Friday): Lakers waived Kobe Bufkin to clear the 15th roster spot.
Before the regular-season deadline (Sunday): Nick Smith Jr.'s two-way deal was converted for postseason eligibility.
Sunday night (Game 82): Lakers defeated Utah Jazz 131-107 to close the season.
After Game 82: Lakers secured the No. 4 seed and will host Houston April 18 or April 19.

News Intelligence

The Lakers' recent moves could impact the team's performance in the playoffs. If you're a fan, you'll want to keep an eye on how Nick Smith Jr. fits into the lineup. And remember, the first round against Houston is set for April 18 or 19.

Media Bias

Articles Published:: 10
Right Leaning:: 0
Left Leaning:: 0
Neutral:: 10

Who Benefited

Nick Smith Jr., the Los Angeles Lakers organization and the South Bay Lakers benefited when the club converted his two-way contract to a standard deal, adding postseason depth for the NBA roster and continuity for the G League affiliate.

Who Impacted

Kobe Bufkin lost his roster spot after the Lakers waived him to clear the 15th roster position, which removed his immediate postseason opportunity with the NBA club.

Media Bias

Articles Published:: 10
Right Leaning:: 0
Left Leaning:: 0
Neutral:: 10
Distribution:: Left 0%, Center 100%, Right 0%

Who Benefited

Who Impacted

Kobe Bufkin lost his roster spot after the Lakers waived him to clear the 15th roster position, which removed his immediate postseason opportunity with the NBA club.