The Los Angeles Lakers have secured the addition of veteran guard Marcus Smart following a buyout with the Washington Wizards. The move came after Luka Doncic reached out directly to Smart, convincing him to join the Lakers for the 2025 season. Smart, known for his defensive prowess, shares a mutual respect and understanding with Doncic, making him a key part of the Lakers’ strategy to build around their Slovenian superstar. Alongside Smart, the Lakers also added Deandre Ayton, further underscoring their commitment to supporting Doncic.
Marcus Smart described the significance of Luka’s call:
“When you get a guy like Luka calling… For him to say that he can really use my help, that meant a lot,”
reflecting his motivation for choosing Los Angeles. Smart’s defensive skills and versatility allow him to guard multiple positions, which complements Doncic’s offensive focus.
Luka Doncic’s Max Contract and Renewed Commitment to Fitness
Doncic recently signed a three-year, $165 million maximum extension with the Lakers, emphasizing his intent to improve on all aspects of the game. At his press conference, he stated that his conditioning has improved significantly, enabling him to be “a little bit faster” and focus on “a little bit of everything.” When questioned about the impact of his fitness on defense, he acknowledged the role Marcus Smart will play in his development, saying,
“I think way better. You obviously got Marcus, so he’s going to teach me some things. Uh, but you know, obviously that’s going to help a lot.”
This enhanced conditioning comes after Doncic shed nearly 12 kilograms during the offseason. Known for his previous struggles with fitness and conditioning, which even raised concerns during discussions of his trade to the Lakers, Doncic’s efforts mark a turning point in his career.
Marcus Smart’s Defensive Strengths Offset Offensive Limitations
At 6-foot-4 and 220 pounds, Smart brings a robust frame and tenacious defensive ability to the Lakers. Cedric Maxwell once claimed Smart is the best defender under seven feet in Celtics history. During the 2024-25 season, Smart averaged only around 9 points with shooting percentages under 40 percent from the field and below 35 percent from three-point range, reflecting limited offensive production. However, his defensive impact is significant; he contributed 1.1 steals, 0.3 blocks, and 1.6 defensive rebounds per game.
The Lakers’ frontline, including Doncic, LeBron James, and Austin Reaves, offsets Smart’s offensive shortcomings, freeing him to concentrate almost exclusively on defense. This partnership theoretically allows Doncic to maximize his scoring and playmaking efforts without worrying about backcourt defense.
Luka Doncic’s Weight Loss: A Turning Point in His Career
Doncic’s weight loss over the summer, roughly 10 to 12 kilograms, addresses one of the biggest criticisms of his earlier Lakers tenure—his “dad-bod” physique and poor conditioning. Media reports highlight that Luka undertook a strict regimen involving two-a-day workouts in Croatia and adhered to a gluten-free, low-sugar, high-protein diet supported by his fitness team’s guidance.
Speaking to Men’s Health magazine, Doncic emphasized the importance of maintaining his physical transformation, stating,
“If I stop now, it was all for nothing.”
His dedication aims to prevent the common pitfall where athletes regain lost weight and lose conditioning during the season.
What This Means for Luka Doncic Lakers MVP Potential in 2025
With Luka Doncic’s improved fitness, the solid defensive presence of Marcus Smart, and a supportive frontcourt featuring LeBron James and Austin Reaves, the Lakers appear poised to elevate their competitive edge. Doncic’s focus on becoming faster and more versatile at both ends of the court could unlock his full MVP potential as he gains the stamina and defensive awareness needed to lead the team.
Marcus Smart’s arrival offers critical defensive mentoring and support, enabling Doncic to concentrate on racking up scoring and assists without excessive defensive pressure. This arrangement could be pivotal for Doncic as he chases the 2025 MVP honor.
The Lakers’ build around Doncic suggests that management is banking on his progression as the franchise cornerstone, supported by specialists like Smart to cover areas where Doncic has traditionally been weaker.
As the new season approaches, all eyes will be on the synergy between Luka and Smart, the impact of Doncic’s physical transformation, and how the Lakers perform with this revamped lineup.