It's been an especially trying week for Smith. He disclosed that his closest friend, David Edwards, 24, committed suicide Sunday. Smith will miss today's practice in order to attend a service for Edwards in the San Diego area. He's scheduled to fly back to the Bay Area on Saturday in time for the game.
Edwards was a housemate at Smith's home in Los Gatos for two years before moving back to San Diego last year. The two had been friends since they were 14, and Edwards often vacationed with the Smith family. The Friday service will be in the Smiths' backyard in Bonita.
He was "really close with my family," Smith said. "So it's been difficult for everybody." He said, "It will be good to go down and see his old friends and family."
Smith found out about his friend's death Sunday after practice. He admitted he's had a hard time coping with the tragedy. He met with reporters Tuesday but didn't mention it. On the practice field, the former starter has found himself playing second fiddle to O'Sullivan.
