NBA veteran Marcus Smart is set to join the Los Angeles Lakers on a two-year, $11 million contract after finalizing a deal with the Washington Wizards, according to ESPN. The 31-year-old, known for his defensive skills, has been limited to just 54 games over the past two seasons due to injuries but is expected to significantly reinforce the Lakers’ defense. In a related development, the Lakers have decided to part ways with guard Shake Milton. Smart, who earned the Defensive Player of the Year award in 2022 and has been named to the all-defensive first team three times, holds a player option allowing him to become a free agent in 2026. This acquisition is seen as a major upgrade for the Lakers’ defensive lineup and backcourt depth.
Throughout his 11-year NBA career, Smart has averaged 10.6 points, 3.4 rebounds, and 4.6 assists per game while establishing himself as one of the league’s premier perimeter defenders, boasting an average of 1.6 steals per game. After being traded midseason from the Memphis Grizzlies to the Washington Wizards in February, he played only 15 games with the Wizards but remains highly valued for his toughness. Smart spent the first nine seasons with the Boston Celtics, who selected him sixth overall in the 2014 NBA Draft. During his tenure with the Celtics, he was a defensive cornerstone, helping the team reach the playoffs every season, including five Eastern Conference Finals and a 2022 NBA Finals appearance.
Fan Take: Marcus Smart’s move to the Lakers is a game-changer for the team’s defensive strategy, offering them the grit and experience they need to compete at the highest levels. For basketball fans, this signing could mean more intense, defense-focused games and a revitalized Lakers squad aiming for championship glory.
