The Los Angeles Lakers put on an impressive offensive display on Thursday night, defeating the Utah Jazz with a final score of 143-135. This marks the highest point total of the season for the Lakers, boosted by a remarkable 45-point triple-double from Luka Doncic, alongside strong performances from LeBron James, who contributed 28 points, 10 assists, and seven rebounds, and Marcus Smart, who added 17 points with effective shooting from beyond the arc.
Smart showcased his shooting prowess, hitting 5-of-9 from three-point range, marking his second-best game this season for 3-pointers, following an impressive effort against the San Antonio Spurs just a week prior. Although the defensive performance across the board was lacking, Smart managed to stand out by contributing on both ends of the court.
He credited his teammates, Doncic and James, for their elite court vision, which helped him find a rhythm. “They played me how every other team’s been playing me,” Smart noted, appreciating the ways in which they created scoring opportunities for him. The Lakers’ offense flourishes when role players like Smart can capitalize on the open looks generated by stars like Doncic and James.
As the Lakers aim for continued success, they understand the importance of reliable outside shooting. While it’s unrealistic to expect Smart to consistently make five 3-pointers per game, his ability to keep defenders honest can significantly impact the team’s overall performance.
While the Lakers are looking to build on their recent offensive strength, there remains a need for improvement in perimeter defense. The front office is reportedly exploring trade options to address this, with New Orleans Pelicans’ Herb Jones emerging as a potential target. Jones, a 2024 First Team All-Defense selection, is known for his defensive capabilities and shooting consistency, making him an ideal fit alongside the Lakers’ star players.
As the Lakers continue to refine their roster and enhance both their offensive and defensive strategies, fans have a reason to feel optimistic about their prospects this season.