The Brooklyn Nets have waived guard Malachi Smith, according to the New York Post's Brian Lewis. This decision comes after Smith's journey through the NBA, which began with a two-year, non-guaranteed deal in April, following two 10-day contracts. The Nets exercised Smith's minimum salary team option in June, but it seems his time with the team has come to an end.
Smith's performance with the Nets was impressive, averaging 8.3 points, 3.4 rebounds, and 3.3 assists per game in 15 appearances. His shooting splits were strong, with a 48.5% field goal percentage, 43.5% from three-point range, and a perfect 100% free throw rate. However, the Nets' decision to waive him suggests they are looking for a different type of player or strategy.
The 26-year-old's NBA career has been a journey, with stops at the Portland Trail Blazers' Rip City Remix, the Milwaukee Bucks' Wisconsin Herd, and the Memphis Grizzlies' Memphis Hustle. Before entering the NBA, Smith played college basketball at Wright State Raiders, Chattanooga Mocs, and Gonzaga Bulldogs, where he was named the West Coast Conference Sixth Man of the Year in 2023. Despite his impressive college career, Smith went undrafted in the 2023 NBA Draft.
This move by the Nets is intriguing, as it raises questions about the team's future plans and the value they place on certain player profiles. It also highlights the competitive nature of the NBA, where players must constantly prove their worth and adapt to changing team dynamics. Smith's story is a testament to the challenges and opportunities within the league, and it will be interesting to see where his next chapter takes him.
As an expert commentator, I find this situation particularly fascinating. The Nets' decision to waive Smith could be a strategic move to create space for a more versatile player or to experiment with different lineups. It also underscores the importance of player development and the fluid nature of the NBA, where careers can change direction in an instant. What makes this story even more intriguing is the potential for Smith to return to the G League, where he can continue to develop and showcase his skills. This could be a turning point in his career, and it will be interesting to see how he responds to this challenge.
