The Los Angeles Lakers made their splashiest move of their next era last season by trading for Luka Doncic. The Slovenian superstar is due to take over as the face of the franchise, and the Lakers have slowly bolstered the lineup around him.
This summer, the Lakers signed Jake LaRavia, Deandre Ayton, and Marcus Smart, hoping they can add some much-needed depth to the star-studded roster.
Doncic and LeBron James are yet to suit up in the preseason. With extra minutes to be had, one key role-player has already stepped up.
GettyEL SEGUNDO, CALIFORNIA – SEPTEMBER 29: Marcus Smart #36 of the Los Angeles Lakers during Los Angeles Lakers Media Day at UCLA Health Training Center on September 29, 2025 in El Segundo, California. (Photo by Ronald Martinez/Getty Images)
Los Angeles Lakers Impressed By Marcus Smart
Smart is a capable facilitator and floor-spacer, but his calling card has always been his defense.
He became the first point guard in two decades to win Defensive Player of the Year, taking it home in 2022. Since then, he has had lackluster, injury-riddled stints with the Memphis Grizzlies and Washington Wizards. On the Lakers, he is expected to find his stride.
So far at training camp, he seems to be back in his prime.
“He was awesome,” said JJ Redick after practice on October 8th. “Given the workload of today, I was impressed he was able to sustain his level of intensity as long as he did.”
Smart was tasked with containing Austin Reaves, and the young scorer had nothing but praise after the battles.
“You still feel that pressure, that intensity that he brings on the defensive end,” Reaves gushed. “That’s going to be big for us.”
If Smart can return to being a top defender, the Lakers should be in a very good spot moving forward. Even if he’s taken a step back physically, he is still one of the best locker room presences in the NBA.
Marcus Smart Praised As a Leader
Between Doncic, Redick, and LeBron James, the Lakers have no shortage of experienced leaders. All three found NBA success and are in a good spot to lead the locker room.
On the court, however, Smart might be the most vocal player on the roster, beating out even the coaching staff.
“Just causing havoc,” detailed Jarred Vanderbilt on Smart’s role. “Not only physically, but just vocally. He’s a vocal guy as well. Just being able to be the anchor of the defense, flying around, setting that tone defensively. I’m excited.”
James is known for calling out what the opposing team will do before they do it. Smart is able to execute at a very high level. He can instruct his teammates on what to do, and when.
With both Smart and James stepping into a leadership role, the Lakers should be in a very good spot moving forward, provided everyone buys into their roles. In a loaded Western Conference, the Lakers need everyone on the roster to understand the expectations, both as a team and as an individual.
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