Marcus Smart Set to Join Lakers Following Wizards Buyout

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by Cristian Andal

Former Wizards guard Marcus Smart. Photo: AP

After a relatively quiet offseason, the Los Angeles Lakers are making waves by securing a significant defensive addition to their roster.

Veteran guard Marcus Smart is expected to sign a two-year deal worth $11 million with the Lakers following a buyout agreement with the Washington Wizards, according to ESPN’s Shams Charania. Smart was originally slated to earn $21.5 million this upcoming season before negotiating the buyout.

In a surprising twist, Dallas Mavericks star Luka Dončić reportedly played a role in encouraging Smart’s move to Los Angeles.

A former Defensive Player of the Year (2022), Smart brings a wealth of experience and defensive grit to the Lakers. Over his career, he has earned three All-Defensive First Team honors and placed in the top ten in DPOY voting on multiple occasions. Known for his tough, physical style and leadership, Smart has long been regarded as one of the league’s premier perimeter defenders.

However, his recent seasons have been plagued by injuries and declining numbers. Since being traded by the Boston Celtics in 2023, Smart has struggled to stay healthy, appearing in just 54 games over the past two seasons. His performance dipped during his stint with the Memphis Grizzlies, where he averaged 11.6 points per game on 40.3% shooting and just 31.7% from beyond the arc. Though he showed some improvement in limited games with Washington, the sample size was small, spanning just 15 contests.

Photo: Getty Images.

Despite those concerns, the Lakers see Smart as a crucial piece in fortifying their defensive identity. Whether guarding opposing point guards or switching onto wings, Smart fits well into head coach JJ Redick’s defensive system, which emphasizes versatility and switching.

To finalize the deal, however, the Lakers must free up cap space. Currently sitting just below the first tax apron after utilizing the mid-level exception, they face a hard cap and limited financial flexibility. Waiving Shake Milton, whose deal is non-guaranteed, could help, but it might not be enough.

Another option would be to release Jordan Goodwin, who also has a non-guaranteed contract. But letting go of Goodwin, a dependable contributor during last season’s playoff run, would be a tough decision for the front office.

The Lakers have a 48-hour window while Smart clears waivers to make the necessary roster and financial adjustments. While Milton’s contract locks in on Sunday, there is slightly more leeway with Goodwin’s.

Alternatively, Los Angeles could explore a trade that sheds salary, although such a move might involve taking on longer-term contracts in return.

Regardless of how they make it happen, bringing in Marcus Smart signals the Lakers’ intention to shore up their defense and add veteran toughness to their championship aspirations.