Lakers officially announce one signing and one waiver! The 21-man training camp roster is released: LeBron James and Luka Dončić lead the charge for the championship.

On September 30th Beijing time, the Lakers officially declared one signing and one release, waiving center Kessler Edwards and signing Nick Smith Jr. to a two-way deal. Smith Jr. was earlier waived by the Hornets. Subsequently, the Lakers unveiled their 21-player training camp roster, with LeBron James and Luka Dončić leading the squad to start the new season and pursue the championship.

Nick Smith Jr. is 1.88 meters tall and weighs 84 kilograms. During the 2024-25 season, he played 60 games for the Charlotte Hornets (starting in 27), averaging 22.8 minutes per game and contributing 9.9 points, 2.1 rebounds, and 2.4 assists. The 21-year-old has spent two seasons with the Hornets, appearing in 111 NBA games (27 starts), averaging 18.9 minutes, 8.0 points, 1.8 rebounds, and 1.8 assists per game. Smith Jr. was selected by the Hornets as the 27th pick in the first round of the 2023 NBA Draft.

In college, Smith Jr. played one season (2022-23) at his hometown University of Arkansas, appearing in 17 games (starting 14), averaging 25.8 minutes, 12.5 points, 1.6 rebounds, and 1.7 assists per game. In the upcoming season, Smith Jr. will wear the Lakers' number 20 jersey.

The Lakers officially released their 21-man training camp roster as follows: #5 Deandre Ayton, #55 RJ Davis, #77 Luka Dončić, #28 Rui Hachimura, #11 Jaxson Hayes, #9 Bronny James, #23 LeBron James, #14 Reggie Cleaveland, #4 Nick Knecht, #10 Koloko, #12 LaRavia, #30 Manon, #31 Machurionis, #15 Austin Reaves, #36 Marcus Smart, #20 Nick Smith Jr., #1 Tyger, #2 Vanderbilt, #7 Vincent, #41 Watson, #50 Nate Williams.

Among them, the three two-way contract spots are filled by Manon, Koloko, and Nick Smith Jr.

How far can the Lakers go this season? Everyone is welcome to share their thoughts.