Lakers decline Nick Smith Jr.’s team option, making guard free agent

LOS ANGELES, CALIFORNIA – APRIL 10: Nick Smith Jr. #20 of the Los Angeles Lakers takes a foul shot during the second half of a game against the Phoenix Suns...The Lakers declined Nick Smith Jr.’s $2.5 million team option for the 2026-27 season, making the guard an unrestricted free agent. The decision, which was first reported by ESPN, will help give the Lakers over $50 million in cap space entering free agency on Tuesday.The Lakers declined Nick Smith Jr.’s $2.5 million t