Nick Smith Jr. is nearing a deal with Spanish club Real Madrid. Smith played last season in the NBA for the Los Angeles Lakers. The 6-foot-2 guard had his free agent rights renounced as the Lakers made over a large portion of the roster this offseason.

Smith started his career with the Charlotte Hornets, after being a first-round pick in the 2023 NBA Draft. Smith was waived by Charlotte after two seasons. He originally started last season on a two-way deal with the Lakers before being promoted to a standard contract in mid-April.