The Los Angeles Lakers have secured their defensive wing in guard Marcus Smart, who has agreed to a two-year, $11-million deal after being bought out by the Washington Wizards. The 31-year-old defender, known for his defensive prowess, will sign his contract once he clears waivers.
Smart’s signing addresses the Lakers’ need for a defensive-minded player after Dorian Finney-Smith left for the Houston Rockets. During his time with the Boston Celtics, Smart was named the 2022 Defensive Player of the Year and has been a three-time member of the NBA’s All-Defensive first team.
With his physical attributes, including size, strength, and athleticism, Smart can defend multiple positions – point guards, shooting guards, and small forwards. His addition, along with center Deandre Ayton and forward Jake LaRavia, brings depth and talent to the Lakers’ roster as they aim to contend in the Western Conference.
Smart’s playing career has been marked by inconsistency due to injuries, but he has consistently shown his defensive abilities, boasting a career defensive rating of 107.9. The Lakers are hoping Smart’s skills will elevate their defense and help them compete with other top teams in the league.
Source: https://www.latimes.com/sports/lakers/story/2025-07-19/marcus-smart-plans-to-join-lakers-after-wizards-contract-buyout