Point guard Marcus Smart revealed that star Luka Doncic was fundamental in his decision to join the Los Angeles team in his introductory press conference.
Smart, after reaching a contract buyout agreement with the Washington Wizards, signed a two-year, $11 million contract with the Los Angeles team. The Los Angeles team waived point guards Shake Milton and Jordan Goodwin to have access to the biannual exception and sign Smart, 31, above the veteran minimum. Smart, the 2022 Defensive Player of the Year and a three-time All-Defense first team member, is expected to bring his perimeter defense to the team, following the departure of Dorian Finney-Smith. With 108 playoff games under his belt, tied with Mike Conley, his experience will be valuable for a relatively new team featuring Doncic and led by JJ Redick, who is in his second season as a coach. Smart expressed that his role will be “to be myself”, highlighting his tenacious defense, intensity, leadership, and intelligence on the court. Doncic’s involvement in Smart’s arrival suggests his long-term commitment to the franchise. Doncic has two years remaining on his contract with the team, including a player option for the 2026-27 season. Smart is one of the four new faces joining the team this offseason, along with Deandre Ayton, Jake LaRavia, and Adou Thiero. The team achieved 50 wins and secured the number 3 spot in the competitive Western Conference last season. Smart commented that the team is prepared to compete in the West, which is anticipated to be just as competitive in the 2025-26 season with the defending champions, the Oklahoma City Thunder, and the renewed Denver Nuggets and Rockets.When you have a guy like Luka calling… asking for you, trying to see where you are, to see if you want to join something special he’s trying to prepare here. For him to say he can really use my help, that meant a lot.
Marcus Smart
After spending the first nine years of his career with the Boston Celtics, Smart played only 54 games in the last two seasons due to injuries.I believe we are up there with the best. Our ceiling is high. If we all focus and do what we must, we can have a very good opportunity.
Marcus Smart
I am very motivated. The last two seasons were, in my eyes, a disappointment. Injuries held me back. But, as I told my wife and family, everything happens for a reason. And it’s curious that 12 years ago I could have been here and now the circle closes and I am here.
Marcus Smart
