The Los Angeles Lakers face a critical decision in shaping their roster for the upcoming NBA season as free agency unfolds. With Josh Okogie entering free agency after being released by the Charlotte Hornets, the Lakers are evaluating his defensive capabilities against the potential offensive boost that Bradley Beal could provide as a Plan B option.

The Lakers, having lost key perimeter defenders like Dorian Finney-Smith, urgently seek a versatile wing defender to complement their already potent offense. While Okogie’s defensive skills make him a valuable asset, there is growing speculation that the Lakers might pursue a different path if Beal, known for his scoring prowess, becomes available. This situation is intensifying as the Lakers monitor the free agent market and potential buyouts, including other candidates such as Marcus Smart.

Balancing Defensive Stability with Offensive Firepower

Josh Okogie’s departure from the Charlotte Hornets has stirred interest across the NBA, particularly for teams prioritizing strong perimeter defense. Okogie, although not recognized for flashy scoring, consistently defends multiple positions effectively and disrupts offensive plays. His dependable defensive presence is particularly appealing to the Lakers, who have built a high-powered offense but need to shore up their defense on the wings.

Nonetheless, the Lakers are not solely fixated on defense. As Trevor Lane of Lakers Nation explained, Bradley Beal offers an offensive game far superior to Okogie’s, despite Beal’s reputation for weaker defense. Lane stated,

If Bradley Beal, who is not particularly a great defensive player, he may not be as bad as his reputation. But a much better, I mean, not even the same league, better offensive player than Josh Okogie. If somebody like Beal would sign with the Lakers, once he gets bought out, I’m absolutely taking him,

underscoring the Lakers’ potential shift toward offensive acquisition if circumstances allow.

However, the uncertainty around Beal’s availability has led the Lakers to consider other alternatives. Marcus Smart, another defensive stalwart with strong leadership and playmaking skills, could emerge as a prime target if he becomes available. According to Lane,

If Beal is not available and if Marcus Smart does not wind up getting bought out by the Washington Wizards, something that I think the Lakers are right now waiting on to see if Smart gets bought out, if he gets free, if then he can become a target for the Lakers,

highlighting the ongoing watchfulness regarding Smart’s status.

Comparing Defensive Options: Marcus Smart Versus Josh Okogie

Marcus Smart and Josh Okogie represent two distinct styles of defensive contribution that the Lakers must weigh carefully. Smart, a former Defensive Player of the Year, combines relentless perimeter defense with savvy playmaking and leadership abilities. Despite modest statistical output in the 2024-25 season—averaging 7.0 points, 3.0 rebounds, and 3.2 assists on 39.3 percent shooting—Smart’s influence extends beyond box scores through his competitiveness and court awareness.

Josh Okogie, though less heralded, brings a youthfulness and tenacity that suit a dynamic defensive role. Splitting time between Phoenix and Charlotte last season, he averaged 7.1 points, 2.8 rebounds, and 1.2 steals in just 15.6 minutes per game while shooting 44.3 percent. His hustle and ability to guard elite scorers make him an attractive candidate for teams needing a classic 3-and-D wing with defensive versatility.

For the Lakers, the choice between Smart and Okogie boils down to a mix of experience versus energy and potential scheme fit. With the New York Knicks reportedly interested in Smart’s buyout, Okogie may remain the more accessible and practical defensive option. This adds complexity to the Lakers’ front-office deliberations as they balance roster needs against financial and strategic considerations.

Implications for the Lakers’ Championship Pursuit

The Lakers’ upcoming choices regarding Okogie, Beal, and Smart will have significant consequences for their title ambitions. Opting for Okogie would reinforce a solid defensive identity critical for securing victories, particularly against high-powered opponents. Conversely, securing Beal would inject additional scoring punch but also introduce risks given his defensive limitations.

As the free agency period advances, the Lakers’ front office must decide whether to maintain or pivot from their current strategy. Given the team’s offensive strengths, supplementing with a tenacious wing defender like Okogie could preserve balance. Yet, the allure of Beal’s scoring might tempt the Lakers to adjust their priorities in pursuit of an elite offensive edge.

This ongoing evaluation at the crossroads of defensive grit and offensive firepower speaks to the broader challenges NBA teams face in assembling championship-caliber rosters. The Lakers’ decisions in the coming weeks will not only shape their season trajectory but also reveal how they navigate the pressures of free agency and team construction.

Our Reader’s Queries

Q. Can Bradley Beal be waived?

A. The Suns could choose to release Beal and deal with his salary as dead money for the next two years. However, this option doesn’t make much sense for them. Since they’d be paying him anyway, it might be better to keep him and use his expiring contract as a trade asset next summer.