The Los Angeles Lakers have taken a decisive step in the offseason by signing Marcus Smart, addressing their need for a strong point guard. This move comes as the Lakers, Clippers, and Phoenix Suns all seek to reshape their rosters with key additions, aiming to compete more effectively in the Western Conference.
While the Lakers finalized the Marcus Smart Lakers signing following his buyout from the Washington Wizards, the Clippers and Suns remain active in pursuing a reliable point guard to lead their squads.
Key Center Acquisitions Shape Roster Building Efforts
Each of the three teams secured noteworthy centers this offseason to strengthen their frontcourt. The Clippers added Brook Lopez to their roster, the Lakers brought in Deandre Ayton, and the Suns opted for Mark Williams. These signings have helped fill the crucial center spot, yet building a balanced team remains incomplete without addressing point guard needs.
Marcus Smart’s Transition to the Lakers
Marcus Smart’s move marks a significant development in this offseason’s guard market. After agreeing to a contract buyout from the Washington Wizards, the 2022 <a href="https://www.buzzineintl.com/category/basketball/nba/”>NBA Defensive Player of the Year is set to join the Lakers on a two-year, $11 million deal once he clears waivers. This presents a promising boost for the Lakers’ backcourt and highlights their urgency in securing experienced talent.
Suns and Clippers Continue Point Guard Searches
The Suns had also pursued Smart but saw the opportunity slip away as he chose the Lakers. This leaves Phoenix in a challenging position to find a veteran ball-handler who can guide their offense. The Clippers are pursuing alternatives too, with Chris Paul emerging as a strong candidate to fill their point guard role.
Lawrence Frank, a Clippers executive, confirmed the team’s interest in Chris Paul, stating,
“He’s a great player, he’s a great Clipper… Of course, we’re strongly, strongly considering him.”
The Suns have also courted Paul to replace Tyus Jones, who signed with Orlando, emphasizing their preference for experienced playmakers over traditional point guard roles.
Strategic Plans for the Suns and Clippers Moving Forward
With Marcus Smart now a Laker, the Suns are likely to turn to either Chris Paul or Ben Simmons as potential solutions to their point guard gap. Paul’s desire to start may align well with Phoenix’s needs, while Simmons remains a candidate for reinvigoration in this market. The Clippers face a balancing act between managing player age and adding veteran leadership, but Paul’s presence could prove valuable despite these concerns.
The unfolding roster changes underscore how critical point guard acquisitions will be for all three teams aiming to stay competitive in a tough Western Conference. As the offseason advances, the Lakers have made a bold statement, but the Clippers and Suns will continue to seek the right fit to solidify their lineups.