As the 2025-2026 NBA season draws near, the Los Angeles Lakers have made a significant move by signing Marcus Smart, aiming to strengthen their defense after a disappointing first-round exit last postseason. This acquisition has led to intense speculation about where the former Defensive Player of the Year will fit within the Lakers’ lineup, fueling the ongoing Marcus Smart Lakers role debate.
Lakers insiders Allie Clifton, Chris McGee, and Mike Bresnahan recently examined Smart’s possible roles during the Lakers’ Show on Sports Spectrum. The discussion focused on whether Smart should assume the starting point guard position or bring his defensive intensity as the team‘s sixth man.
Potential Starting Role vs. Sixth Man Impact
Chris McGee floated the possibility of Smart cracking the starting lineup, noting the team’s urgent need for improved defense.
“What if you need defense? Maybe Marcus breaks into the starting lineup,”
McGee proposed, highlighting the shifting priorities concerning the team’s rotation.
Mike Bresnahan agreed with the idea that Smart could move between a starting role and sixth man duties, even considering who might come off the floor to accommodate these changes. He remarked,
“I think Smart is the 6th man and maybe a spot starter here or there. Maybe they take a longer look at him in the starting lineup. I don’t know if it’s Ruri who would go to the bench. Probably more like Austin because Ruri you give up a lot of size.”
How Austin Reaves’ Role Could Shift with Smart’s Arrival
The arrival of Smart has put Austin Reaves’ role under scrutiny. McGee addressed Reaves’ habit of coming off the bench and hinted at a potential shift in his minutes.
“Okay, Austin Reaves, you’re used to coming off the bench. I’m sure he won’t like this, but Marcus Smart … they need some defense. If he can show that he’s healthy, he can knock down some 3s every once in a while. He didn’t play a lot last season, but he shot pretty well from deep.”
Clifton added support by pointing out Smart’s shooting efficiency, noting that in the 2024-2025 season, Smart shot 35% from beyond the arc, an improvement over his career average of 32%. This shooting ability adds a valuable dimension to Smart’s defensive prowess, making him a more versatile option either on the bench or as a starter.
Balancing Lineup Decisions and Team Chemistry
Deciding Smart’s role involves balancing the desire for strong defense, leadership, and offensive spacing. Bresnahan emphasized the complexity of these lineup choices given the Lakers’ history and current player strengths. He noted the challenge in deciding who sits, especially since Austin Reaves has been a fan favorite and a dynamic contributor alongside stars like LeBron James and Luka Doncic.
Despite Reaves’ popularity and exciting playing style, the Lakers have struggled to advance deep into the playoffs, as seen in their first-round exit against Minnesota last year. This ongoing struggle might prompt coach J.J. Redick to adjust rotations, favoring Smart’s defensive impact to change the team’s postseason fortune.
Implications for the Lakers’ Future and Team Dynamics
Bresnahan’s observations suggest a flexible deployment for Smart that could shift depending on the team’s evolving needs throughout the season. The synergy between Smart and teammates, particularly The Don—Luka Doncic—who personally recruited Smart, illustrates a strong backing from key players and adds confidence to the team’s approach.
Overall, the Marcus Smart Lakers role debate underscores the Lakers’ quest for an ideal balance of defense and offense, with possible lineup changes that could redefine Austin Reaves’ involvement. This strategic reconfiguration hints at an intense and uncertain season ahead, where role clarity will be critical to the Purple and Gold’s success.
Our Reader’s Queries
Q. Why does Marcus Smart dye his hair?
A. According to Smart, his mom always loved his hair and the styles he chose. She admired everything from braids to longer hair. When he began dyeing it, she was very supportive. She often mentioned wanting to see him with green hair. Unfortunately, she passed away before seeing him with that color.
Q. Is Marcus Smart a nice guy?
A. He’s known for being very honest and direct, which is something I truly appreciate about him. Marcus doesn’t beat around the bush. However, many fans aren’t aware that Smart also has a gentle and caring side. Behind closed doors, he is incredibly kind and thoughtful.