The Lakers have added a key reinforcement for next season, courtesy of Luka Doncic. During his introductory press conference with the team, Marcus Smart revealed that it was Doncic himself who convinced him to join the Lakers.
Smart, after being released by the Wizards, signed a two-year, $11 million contract with the Lakers. In order to sign him, the team had to waive Shake Milton and Jordan Goodwin, using the bi-annual exception to exceed the veteran minimum salary. The 2022 Defensive Player of the Year and three-time All-Defensive First Team member, Smart arrives to strengthen the Lakers’ perimeter defense, following the departure of Dorian Finney-Smith. With 108 playoff games under his belt, a figure that places him among the most experienced active players, Smart’s arrival is a great contribution to a relatively new team, which also has JJ Redick as coach. LeBron James is also part of the team. Smart emphasized his desire to bring his playing style to the team.“When you get a call from a guy like Luka… asking about you, trying to see where you are, to see if you want to join something special he’s trying to build here,” Smart commented. “For him to say he can really use my help, that meant a lot.”
Marcus Smart
Doncic’s initiative to add Smart is a good omen for the future of the franchise. Doncic has two years remaining on his contract with the Lakers, including a player option for the 2026-27 season. The Lakers can offer him a four-year, $222 million extension starting August 2nd. Smart is one of the four new faces joining the team this season, along with Deandre Ayton, Jake LaRavia, and Adou Thiero. Smart believes the Lakers are prepared to compete in the Western Conference, which is shaping up to be a challenge with teams like the Thunder, Nuggets, and Rockets.“Just being me,” Smart said when asked about his role on the team. “Coming in and doing what I do, which is being a tenacious defender, bringing the intensity that I have, my leadership, and my basketball IQ. Being the pest that I’ve always been.”
Marcus Smart
After playing nine seasons with the Celtics, the team that drafted him at number 6 in 2014, Smart played only 54 games in the last two seasons due to injuries. “I am very motivated,” Smart commented. “The last two years were, in my opinion, a disappointment. Injuries held me back. But as I told my wife and family, everything happens for a reason. And it’s funny that 12 years ago I could have been here and now the circle is complete and I am here.”“I think we’re up there with the best,” Smart affirmed. “Our ceiling is high. I think there’s no ceiling. If we all focus and do what we need to do, we can have a good chance.”
Marcus Smart
