The Los Angeles Lakers are poised to add veteran defensive force Marcus Smart to their roster following his recent buyout agreement with the Washington Wizards. Multiple reliable outlets report that Smart is expected to sign a two-year deal worth approximately $11 million, including a player option for 2026.
To make room under the NBA’s hard-cap structure, the Lakers moved quickly. They waived guards Shake Milton and Jordan Goodwin—moves widely believed to be directly linked to clearing cap space for Smart’s addition.
Smart, a former NBA Defensive Player of the Year and three-time All-Defensive First Team honoree, brings a gritty, high-energy style to the Lakers’ backcourt. Known for his fierce perimeter defense, Smart averaged 9.0 points, 3.2 assists, and 1.6 steals per game over his most recent seasons. His fit is being likened to a defensive anchor alongside stars LeBron James and Luka Dončić.
Sources say Dončić personally reached out to Smart, playing a central role in luring him to Los Angeles. The signing follows the acquisitions of Deandre Ayton and Jake LaRavia. This defensive-first strategy emphasizes a blend of size, toughness, and veteran leadership.
The Lakers are now operating near the first apron line, roughly $1.1 million below it. This limits future flexibility but ensures they remain eligible for trades and buyout-market signings without crossing the hard cap.
Analysts project Smart will either start or come off the bench as the team’s primary ball-handler defender, injecting toughness into key moments.
Smart’s career began with the Boston Celtics, where he spent nine seasons, earned his Defensive Player of the Year honors, and made nine straight playoff appearances. He’s since played for Memphis and Washington, though injuries have limited his availability in recent seasons. Still, he remains recognized for his hustle, physicality, and proven track record as a two-way presence.
In the coming days, Smart must clear waivers before the Lakers officially finalize the contract. Once complete, he’ll join a Lakers squad coming off a 50–32 season and aiming to improve their postseason depth.
This move represents more than just a veteran pickup—it signals a strategic swing by Los Angeles to shore up defensive consistency, satisfy championship expectations from stakeholders like LeBron and Dončić, and address glaring weaknesses from last year’s postseason exit.
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