Nick Smith Jr. scored 25 points, including two late 3-pointers, to help the Los Angeles Lakers secure a 123-115 victory over the Portland Trail Blazers on Monday at Moda Center.
Playing without LeBron James, Luka Doncic, and Austin Reaves, the Lakers relied on Deandre Ayton, who led the team with 29 points, 10 rebounds, and three blocks. Rui Hachimura added 28 points, while Smith Jr. took advantage of Portland’s aggressive perimeter defense.
In his postgame interview, Smith Jr. reflected on his performance and adjustment to the Lakers. “It means a lot, man. I’m blessed to be in this position. I got a good group around me, good coaching staff…each and every day I’m learning,” he said.
Smith Jr. also discussed his strategy against Portland. “I understood that, so just watching the film, just looking at what they gonna give me for the night, and I just had to go out there and execute it,” he explained. He added, “Especially if they in that drop, you know for 48 minutes, you got to step up three…other guys you can penetrate and get open.”
The guard described the energy on the bench as “nothing but positive energy,” noting that his teammates encouraged him to keep playing aggressively. “My teammates want me to go out there and be me…if they’re pressuring, go make a play,” he said.
Smith Jr. also reflected on his journey from Charlotte to Los Angeles. “When I first walked in media day…teammates didn’t really know who I was…for me to have this moment now and for everybody to come together and have a big win like this is definitely special for me,” he said.
The Lakers trailed Portland early but took control in the third quarter with a 10-1 run, and Ayton’s basket late in the fourth pushed Los Angeles ahead for good. Portland’s three-point shooting faltered, making only nine of 40 attempts, while Deni Avdija led the Trail Blazers with 33 points.
Los Angeles improved to 6-2 with their fourth consecutive victory, while Portland dropped to 4-3. The Lakers will host the San Antonio Spurs on Wednesday, and the Trail Blazers face the Oklahoma City Thunder.
