Lakers fill out backcourt with new Smith deal

TheLos Angeles Lakersare signing two-way guardNick Smith Jr.to a new two-year contract, agent Lucas Newton of Klutch Sports told EasyChamp Sunday.

With star guardsLuka DoncicandAustin Reavessidelined, the Lakers are adding backcourt depth for the playoffs.

"Obviously a difficult decision," Redick said of the choice between converting Smith or big manDrew Timme. "Drew has been awesome for us. Frankly, we're missing two of our ball-handlers -- two of our primary ball-handlers. We need Nick, we need shooting as well. A lot of discussion, a lot of debate over the last few days about that."

After a131-107 winin Sunday's regular-season finale against theUtah Jazz, the Lakers hold the No. 4 seed in the Western Conference.

Smith entered Sunday averaging 6 points and one assist while shooting 40% from 3 in 12.3 minutes per game in 29 games. He had 12 points and one assist and went 2-for-6 from 3 in 18 minutes against the Jazz.

EasyChamp's Dave McMenamin contributed to this story.