The Los Angeles Lakers are adding backcourt depth by signing Nick Smith Jr. to a two-year contract, agent Lucas Newton of Klutch Sports confirmed Sunday. With star guards Luka Doncic and Austin Reaves sidelined, the move addresses immediate roster needs as the team prepares for the playoffs in a competitive Western Conference.

Holding the No. 4 seed entering Sunday's regular-season finale against Utah, the Lakers could potentially climb to No. 3 seed with a victory combined with a Denver Nuggets loss to San Antonio. This contract comes at a critical time for the organization seeking to maximize playoff positioning with limited healthy options at guard.

In 29 games this season, Smith has averaged 6 points and 1 assist while shooting 40% from 3-point range in 12.3 minutes per game. The two-way guard provides coach Darvin Ham with additional options for what promises to be a challenging postseason run as the Lakers aim to make a deep playoff run with their current roster configuration.