The Los Angeles Lakers have taken a decisive step to enhance their team defense by signing Marcus Smart, a guard renowned for his defensive skills, just two days after releasing Shake Milton and Jordan Goodwin. This move was made to bolster support around their star player, Luka Doncic, as the Lakers prepare for the upcoming <a href="https://www.buzzineintl.com/category/basketball/nba/”>NBA season.
Smart, standing 6-foot-3, joins the Lakers after being bought out by the Washington Wizards. The 31-year-old guard spent the first nine years of his NBA career with the Boston Celtics, earning recognition for his toughness and defensive excellence.
Marcus Smart’s Defensive Expertise
Smart’s reputation as a defensive specialist is well-deserved. Though capable offensively, his defensive impact is what truly defines his game. Known for positioning his body strategically to block straightforward drives, Smart also excels at making smart defensive plays that disrupt opponents’ offensive rhythm.
In 2022, he earned the NBA Defensive Player of the Year award while playing for the Celtics, demonstrating his ability to anticipate plays and use physicality effectively. Throughout that season, Smart averaged 1.7 steals per game, underscoring his status as one of the league’s premier perimeter defenders.
Addressing Luka Doncic’s Needs Through Smart’s Signing
Despite concerns about Smart’s injury history, having played only 54 games since the start of the 2023-24 season, the Lakers believe his addition aligns well with their strategy to support Doncic’s demands. According to league insiders, Doncic wanted the team to add a rim-running center, shooting depth, and defensive strength.
The Lakers responded by acquiring Deandre Ayton and Jake LaRavia, and with the addition of Smart, they have further strengthened their roster in key areas. Doncic himself played a crucial role in recruiting both Ayton and Smart this summer following their availability via contract buyouts.
“Marcus Smart is officially a Laker,”
shared a leading journalist on social media along with the Lakers’ official announcement. —Prominent Journalist
This collaboration indicates the Lakers’ commitment not only to build a competitive team but also to ensure their franchise player feels fully supported as they aim for an NBA championship.
The Lakers’ Path Forward With a Reinforced Defense
By signing Smart, the Lakers have significantly strengthened their defensive options while simultaneously demonstrating flexibility in aligning their roster with Luka Doncic’s vision. As the season approaches, this move could be a critical factor in improving the team’s competitiveness and championship prospects. The signing of Smart exemplifies the franchise’s determination to create a team capable of deep playoff success centered around their star guard.