Marcus Smart Joins Lakers After Luka Doncic Recruitment

Marcus Smart is officially a Laker, signing a two-year, $11 million deal after a Wizards buyout. But this wasn’t about cap space — it was about Luka Doncic.

According to reports, Doncic personally called Smart, saying: “I want to play with you.” That pitch beat out offers from the Suns and Bucks, signaling a power shift in Los Angeles.

Filling a Defensive Void

The Lakers needed toughness after losing Dorian Finney-Smith, and Smart fits perfectly alongside Luka and Austin Reaves. Known for grit and defensive tenacity, the 31-year-old guard has averaged 1.6 steals per game in his career and even showed improved shooting in Washington, hitting 39.2% from deep.

LeBron Losing Influence?

What makes this move more intriguing is what it means for the Lakers’ hierarchy. For the first time since 2018, LeBron James isn’t pulling the strings. Ownership is building around Doncic, not LeBron, signaling a long-term shift.

With Smart’s health the only question, LA is betting big on defense, leadership, and Luka’s growing control of the franchise.