In a shrewd move, the Los Angeles Lakers have snagged elite defender Marcus Smart, bolstering their backcourt with a defensive mastermind. After finalizing a buyout agreement with the Washington Wizards, Smart agreed to a two-year, $11 million deal with the Lakers, with a player option for 2026-27. But what sealed the deal for Smart? It wasn’t just the glitz of LA or the promise of a big contract. According to insiders, it was the personal touch from Lakers superstar Luka Doncic that won Smart over. Doncic’s recruitment efforts paid off, and Smart was sold on the Lakers’ vision.
Smart’s decision wasn’t without consideration, though. The Phoenix Suns and Milwaukee Bucks were also in the mix, and even the New York Knicks checked in. However, Smart prioritized the Lakers’ offer of guaranteed playing time and a clear path to contributing to the team’s success.
The addition of Smart addresses a key area of need for the Lakers: defense. As one of the premier defensive guards in the league, Smart brings a level of tenacity and expertise that could be a game-changer for LA. Despite injuries limiting him to 54 games over the past two seasons, the Lakers are banking on Smart staying healthy and bringing his A-game. One fanbase, in particular, is reeling from Smart’s departure – but for the Lakers, this signing could be a championship-caliber move. With Smart and Doncic leading the charge, the Lakers might just be unstoppable.
