Razorback freshman guard Nick Smith Jr. (#3) from Jacksonville, AR drives to the basket against UNCG at Bud Walton Arena in Fayetteville, AR.

By Otis Kirk

FAYETTEVILLE -- Freshman guard Nick Smith Jr. only played 20 minutes in Arkansas' 76-57 victory over Bradley Saturday in Simmons Bank Arena.

Smith went to the back and got his knee taped and then returned, but didn't play after that. Eric Musselman addressed the situation after the game.

"He got taped at halftime, and then the tape felt a little uncomfortable," Musselman said. "I just didn’t really feel the need to put him back in when he got taped up at halftime, and then left to get re-taped. By that point I just felt like … And I discussed it quite a bit on bench with Coach (Keith) Smart, because of his experience. Coach (Gus) Argenal. The three of us talked about it. With the flow and the way the game was going, I just felt like there wasn’t a need to probably put him back in at that juncture."

Musselman said Smith will be able to play against UNC Asheville on Wednesday night. He had a simple reply when asked if the injury was serious?

"No, no, no," Musselman said.

Smith has been limited to five games this season after not playing to begin the season due to knee pain management. The predicted lottery pick is averaging 12.8 points and 1.8 rebounds each outing.

Saturday was a rough performance for Smith. He was 1 of 8 from the field and finished with five points. He did hit both free throws and one of his four shots from distance. He also had a rebound and one steal.

Smith the Hogs are now 10-1 on the season.