The Los Angeles Lakers are making significant moves in the offseason to enhance their roster, particularly focusing on their point of attack defense. After their initial offseason activities, the team has reportedly secured a promising solution in Marcus Smart. Smart is expected to sign with the Lakers following the clearance of waivers, marking a pivotal addition to the squad.
Recently, Smart was bought out by the Washington Wizards. This decision was anticipated by many in the league, especially after the Wizards bolstered their guard lineup through both the draft and trades. During his time with the Wizards, Smart developed a reputation as a vital mentor and a defensive catalyst for their younger players. His expected role with the Lakers could either be as a starter or a key contributor off the bench.
The Lakers' acquisition of Smart can be described as a best-case scenario for the team, particularly since they were in dire need of a strong perimeter defender after Dorian Finney-Smith signed with the Houston Rockets. Smart will join forces with Jarred Vanderbilt, establishing one of the most formidable defensive duos in the league. This addition provides head coach JJ Redick with enhanced versatility for his defensive schemes.
Despite having limited resources for free agency signings, the Lakers managed to attract Smart with a lucrative two-year deal worth the full bi-annual exception (BAE). This contract is reportedly valued at $11 million and includes a player option for the 2026-27 season, according to sources from Shams Charania of ESPN. Smart, who was named the 2022 Defensive Player of the Year and has been a three-time first-team All-Defense member, is poised to make a significant impact on the Lakers' defensive strategy.
Currently, the BAE is set at $5.1 million for this season, and the Lakers may need to maneuver to access the full amount. Potential strategies include waiving Shake Milton, who has a non-guaranteed contract worth $3 million, and Jordan Goodwin, who is under a lightly-guaranteed agreement. The team could also consider consolidating some of their expiring contracts to create additional roster space and cap flexibility.
The inclusion of a player option in Smart's contract is a strategic move that allows him the opportunity to re-enter free agency next summer when many teams are expected to have more cap space. This acquisition represents a smart business decision for the Lakers, who seem to be on the brink of successfully rounding out their roster.
In an interesting twist, Luka Doncic, who has not yet signed an extension with the Lakers, played a role in recruiting Marcus Smart to the team. This connection could further strengthen the team’s dynamics as they aim for championship contention.
