Guard Marcus Smart has agreed to a two-year, $11 million contract with the Los Angeles Lakers after clearing waivers, sources told ESPN on Saturday. Smart, the 2022 Defensive Player of the Year and three-time All-Defense first-team member, will have a player option in his new deal for more lucrative free agency opportunities in 2026.
The move brings Smart back to the NBA spotlight, where he previously played nine seasons with the Boston Celtics. However, he missed the playoffs over the past two years due to injuries and limited playing time, averaging just 20 minutes per game last season.
Lakers star Luka Doncic reached out to Smart to play alongside him, addressing a key roster need created by Dorian Finney-Smith’s departure. The Lakers waived Shake Milton to create space for Smart, who had positive conversations with personnel from the Phoenix Suns and Milwaukee Bucks, according to sources.
Smart will now have an opportunity to revive his career with the Lakers, who face a void left by Finney-Smith’s loss. With the signing of Smart, the team aims to bolster their defense and enhance their playoff chances.
Source: https://www.espn.com/nba/story/_/id/45775886/sources-marcus-smart-plans-join-lakers-wizards-buyout