Veteran guard Marcus Smart has officially signed with the Los Angeles Lakers on a two-year, $11 million deal—completing a buyout from the Washington Wizards and clearing waivers—just in time to bolster their backcourt ahead of the 2025–26 NBA season.
A Defensive Anchor with Championship Pedigree
Smart, widely recognized as one of the league’s premier defenders—earning NBA Defensive Player of the Year in 2022 and three First-Team All-Defensive honors—brings a much-needed perimeter presence to a Lakers squad looking to tighten up on D. General Manager Rob Pelinka emphasized his pedigree:
“Marcus epitomizes what it means to prioritize winning above all else… He knows and understands playoff winning and will be a key leadership voice in our group”.
The Buyout Details
Smart gave up approximately $6.8 million in salary to secure the buyout from the Wizards, enabling the Lakers to structure the contract through the bi-annual exception—officially pegged at $10.5 million over two years, with a player option for the 2026–27 season.
Roster Moves to Make It Happen
To fit Smart under their cap, the Lakers waived guards Shake Milton and Jordan Goodwin, creating the financial flexibility needed for the acquisition.
The Luka Effect
A decisive factor in Smart’s decision was a personal outreach from Luka Dončić, who reportedly “recruited him hard.” Smart acknowledged Dončić’s influence, calling it “a guy like Luka calling … meant a lot”.
Fit & Expectations
Smart is expected to primarily serve as a point-of-attack defender and ball-handler off the bench, pairing with Luka and Austin Reaves in the backcourt rotation. His veteran savvy and playoff experience should elevate what was previously a shaky perimeter defense.
Injury Context & Current Form
While Smart averaged 9.0 points and 3.2 assists across 34 total games last season—stints spent with both Memphis (19 games) and Washington (15 games)—his availability has been impacted by injuries over the past two seasons. The Lakers will now bet on his health and resilience paying dividends.
Broader Lakers Roster Strategy
Smart’s signing is the third major offseason addition after Joaquín Ayton and Jake LaRavia, reflecting the Lakers’ intent to build championship-level depth alongside core stars LeBron James, Dončić, Reaves, and Rui Hachimura.
What It All Means
- Defensive boost: Smart addresses a glaring need at wing defense after Dorian Finney-Smith’s departure.
- Veteran leadership: His experience and mentality offer intangible benefits in postseason battles.
- High upside: If injuries are kept at bay, Smart quietly elevates the Lakers’ defensive identity and late-game toughness.
Final Take
This move signals the Lakers’ firm commitment to contention in the Western Conference, combining youthful star power with experienced, two-way veterans. Marcus Smart, at 31, embodies playoff grit and defensive excellence—qualities that could prove vital in their quest to return to NBA prominence.
