The point guard Marcus Smart, recently signed by Los Angeles, revealed Luka Doncic’s influence on his decision to join the team. In his introductory press conference, Smart highlighted the call from Doncic, who contacted him to invite him to be part of a special project.
Smart, after reaching an agreement with the Washington Wizards, signed a two-year, $11 million contract with Los Angeles. The team cut Shake Milton and Jordan Goodwin to be able to use the bi-annual exception and sign Smart, 31, above the veteran minimum. Smart, Defensive Player of the Year in 2022 and a three-time member of the All-Defensive first team, will bring his perimeter defensive experience to the Lakers, following the departure of Dorian Finney-Smith. With 108 playoff games under his belt, matching Mike Conley, his veteran presence will be valuable for a relatively new team, which traded for Doncic in February. Coach JJ Redick, in his second season, will have the experience of LeBron James. Smart emphasized that his role will be to be himself, a tenacious defender, bringing intensity, leadership, and his intelligence on the court.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 that he’s trying to prepare here. For him to say that he can really use my help, that meant a lot.
Marcus Smart
Doncic’s insistence on signing Smart suggests his long-term commitment to the franchise. Doncic has two years remaining on his contract, with a player option for 2026-27. The Lakers can offer him a four-year, $222 million extension starting August 2.
Smart joins Deandre Ayton, Jake LaRavia, and Adou Thiero, as the new additions to the team this season. Los Angeles achieved 50 victories and secured the third position in the competitive Western Conference last season, before being eliminated in the first round of the playoffs. Smart is confident that Los Angeles can compete in the West, which is expected to be just as challenging in 2025-26 with teams like the Oklahoma City Thunder, Denver Nuggets, and Houston Rockets.After spending nine years with the Boston Celtics, Smart played only 54 games in the last two seasons due to injuries. Smart was motivated after a period affected by injuries, highlighting the importance of his return to Los Angeles.I think we’re up there with the best. And I think we can compete. Our ceiling is high. I think there’s no ceiling. I think if we all focus and do what we’re supposed to do, we can have a very good opportunity.
Marcus Smart
