Bronny James has secured a potentially pivotal opportunity with the Los Angeles Lakers after guard Nick Smith Jr. departed the NBA to sign with Real Madrid, the Spanish powerhouse where Luka Dončić first emerged as a European star.
Nick Smith Jr. Joins Real Madrid on One-Year Deal
Smith had been directly competing with Bronny for rotation minutes last season, but the Lakers declined his $2.49 million team option, allowing him to enter free agency. His next destination is now confirmed.
“Free agent guard Nick Smith Jr. has agreed to a one-year deal with Real Madrid, agents Lucas Newton and Calvin Andrews of Klutch Sports told @hoopshype,” Michael Scotto reported. “He averaged 7.6 points in 17.5 minutes during three NBA seasons with the Hornets and Lakers. He’ll be Real Madrid’s lead guard.”
Statistical Comparison and Lakers’ Clear Priority
Smith’s departure is significant because he outperformed Bronny statistically during the 2024–25 campaign. Smith averaged 6.2 points in 12.5 minutes across 30 games, shooting 43.5% from the field. Bronny appeared in 42 games but averaged 2.9 points in 8.9 minutes while shooting 40.9%.
Despite the statistical gap, the Lakers signaled their long-term commitment on June 29 by fully guaranteeing Bronny’s $2.3 million salary for the 2026–27 season while declining Smith’s option.
Bronny James Reacts to Former Teammate’s Move
Bronny showed no ill will regarding Smith’s European move, commenting on his former teammate’s Instagram announcement: “Damn thats fire bro be great!!!”
JJ Redick Endorses Bronny’s Defensive Development
Head coach JJ Redick has consistently voiced support for Bronny’s progress, particularly on the defensive end.
“I know there was a stretch recently where he didn’t shoot it well and of course, he had a nice shooting game against Utah,” Redick said. “He’s improved a ton defensively in terms of his body positioning, both on and off ball. We want him to continue to evolve as a disruptive defender as well.”
While Redick’s praise does not guarantee Bronny a major role, one direct competitor for backcourt minutes has now exited. Smith has joined the same European club where Dončić developed before his NBA jump, while Bronny remains in Los Angeles with another season to prove he deserves an expanded place in the Lakers’ rotation.
