In a delightful turn of events for Los Angeles Lakers fans, former Defensive Player of the Year Marcus Smart is set to join the team on a two-year, $11 million deal. This move comes at a critical time for the Lakers, who are looking to bolster their roster with depth and defensive prowess.
Smart, who is 31, previously enjoyed a nine-year career with the Boston Celtics, where he established himself as one of the league’s most formidable and physical defenders. After an unfulfilling 39-game period with the Memphis Grizzlies, he was traded to the Washington Wizards at the deadline and subsequently reached a buyout agreement with the team. Despite being due over $21 million this season, Smart aims for a fresh start in a more competitive environment with the Lakers.
While Smart may not be the defensive powerhouse he once was due to injuries and age, he is expected to play a pivotal role as a complementary player rather than a heavy minute starter. His defensive intelligence remains intact, and his experience will be an asset to the Lakers as they seek to improve their point-of-attack defense. Standing at 6-foot-4 and weighing 220 pounds, he has historically had the versatility to guard various positions from point guards to forwards, although his explosive athleticism may have waned.
Offensively, Smart presents some uncertainty; he has occasionally relied on three-point shooting, yet his shooting percentage has varied throughout his career, sitting at 38.8% across his 11 seasons. However, Smart’s self-awareness regarding his limitations mitigates the risk of him taking ill-advised shots.
His addition could prove beneficial alongside key players like Luka Dončić and LeBron James, enhancing the Lakers’ defensive efforts while creating intriguing dynamics on offense. The transition may present challenges, particularly in terms of spacing when Smart is on the floor, yet his capacity to defend opposing perimeter threats can’t be understated.
The Wizards, on the other hand, may feel the impact of Smart’s departure. With a focus on developing their young talent, removing a veteran presence like Smart could limit their defensive instruction for rising stars like Bub Carrington and rookie Tre Johnson. Nonetheless, this opens opportunities for younger players to gain more experience, which is essential for their growth.
As the Lakers gear up for what they hope will be a successful season, Smart’s experience and defensive resurgence could provide the team with a much-needed edge in their pursuit of a championship.