The Los Angeles Lakers have made headlines once again this offseason, and this time, it’s not just because of a blockbuster trade or a flashy free-agent signing. Instead, the buzz surrounds a strategic and potentially game-changing addition: Marcus Smart. After a season that saw ups and downs for the veteran guard, Smart now finds himself in the purple and gold, poised for a fresh start in Hollywood.
Perhaps what’s most intriguing about this move is the role that Luka Dončić played in bringing Smart to L.A. Now firmly entrenched as the face and leader of the Lakers, Dončić has shown he’s not just a generational talent on the court—he’s also an influential figure in shaping the team’s future. His recruitment of Smart speaks volumes about his respect for the 2022 Defensive Player of the Year and his vision for the team’s identity moving forward.
Smart arrives in Los Angeles with a chip on his shoulder and plenty to prove. The tenacious guard, known for his gritty defense, unrelenting hustle, and leadership, has long been one of the NBA’s most respected role players. Though he’s not always flashy on the stat sheet, Smart brings the kind of intangibles that championship teams are built on. His time with the Boston Celtics saw him develop into a floor general and emotional leader, and his defensive prowess earned him one of the league’s most coveted individual honors in 2022.
But his journey hasn’t been without bumps. Injuries, roster changes, and a shifting role within his previous teams have sometimes overshadowed his contributions. Now, in a new environment with a fresh system, Smart has the chance to reset the narrative. With Dončić running the offense and commanding attention from defenses, Smart won’t be required to carry a heavy scoring load. Instead, he can thrive in his natural role—disrupting opponents, setting the tone defensively, and making clutch plays when it matters most.
The Lakers are betting on more than just Smart’s defensive chops. They see a veteran presence who can stabilize the backcourt, bring energy to the locker room, and hold teammates accountable. In many ways, he complements Dončić perfectly. While Luka dazzles with highlight-reel passes and deep three-pointers, Smart anchors the other end of the court with lockdown perimeter defense and relentless effort.
For Smart, this isn’t just a new team—it’s a golden opportunity to remind the league why he’s one of the most respected players in the game. With a high-profile stage, a renewed sense of purpose, and the backing of one of the league’s brightest stars, Marcus Smart is well-positioned to reestablish himself as a key contributor on a title-contending roster.
As the Lakers prepare for the upcoming season, one thing is clear: the combination of Dončić and Smart could become one of the most dynamic duos in the NBA—not just in terms of talent, but in toughness, leadership, and drive. And for Smart, Los Angeles might just be the perfect place for a powerful second act.