Hornets explore trade market as Nick Smith Jr.’s role diminishes Smith Jr., who was drafted late in the first round in 2023, has seen his role diminish significantly during his sophomore season.

When asked about his newfound comfort on the court, the second-year guard gave credit to his old coach, former Hornets head coach Steve Clifford.

Nick Smith Jr. is in the midst of a playing time renaissance. The 27th overall pick in the 2023 NBA Draft has quickly developed from a seldom used bench guard into a key piece in the Charlotte ...