The Brooklyn Nets have waived guard Malachi Smith, according to the New York Post's Brian Lewis. This decision comes after Smith's two-year, non-guaranteed deal with the team, which included two 10-day contracts and an exercised minimum salary team option in June. Smith's performance with the Nets in the 2022-23 season was impressive, averaging 8.3 points, 3.4 rebounds, and 3.3 assists per game with a strong shooting split. However, his NBA journey is far from over.
Smith's career has been a journey through various G League teams, including the Portland Trail Blazers' Rip City Remix, Milwaukee Bucks' Wisconsin Herd, and Memphis Grizzlies' Memphis Hustle. His college career began at Wright State Raiders before transferring to Chattanooga Mocs, and he made a name for himself at Gonzaga University, where he was named the West Coast Conference Sixth Man of the Year in 2023. Despite his impressive performance, Smith went undrafted in the 2023 NBA Draft.
This decision raises questions about the future of Smith's NBA career. With his age and experience, he may need to continue his development in the G League or explore other opportunities. The Nets' decision to waive him could be a strategic move to create space for other players or a reflection of the team's overall strategy. As a fan of the game, I find it fascinating to see how players navigate the NBA's complex landscape, especially those with unique paths like Smith's.
In my opinion, Smith's story highlights the importance of perseverance and adaptability in the NBA. His journey from the G League to the NBA showcases the potential for growth and development, even for players who may not be drafted. The Nets' decision to waive him could be a learning opportunity for Smith, pushing him to continue improving and seeking new challenges. As the NBA season progresses, it will be interesting to see how Smith's career unfolds and whether he finds a permanent spot in the league.
