Dwyane Wade says LA Lakers made ‘huge signing’ who changes games whenever he’s on the court

Dwyane Wade thinks Marcus Smart was a ‘massive’ signing for LA Lakers

Dwyane Wade spoke on his Time Out podcast recently, where he addressed the Los Angeles Lakers’ start to the season.

Out of all the new signings the Lakers made, Marcus Smart has impressed him the most, given that he gives the Lakers back-up scoring as a point guard, along with excellent defense; two things they need.

“Not a big signing to everybody ‘cos you kind of lost Marcus when he left Boston, huge signing for the Lakers, everything he brings from a back-up point guard perspective, from his intensity defensively.

“When he comes in, he changes basketball games. His shot-making ability as well.”

Smart has started the season brilliantly, averaging 10.0 points, 3.6 assists, and 2.3 steals. While his efficiency isn’t great, that will likely improve as the season goes on.

Marcus Smart could bring out the best defensively in LeBron James

Over the last few years, it is fair to say that LeBron James hasn’t really been a focal point for the LA Lakers on the defensive end.

James is a historically great defender. But given his advanced age and the workload he takes on the offensive end, he has deprioritized the defensive end to conserve his health and energy.

However, with Luka Doncic and Austin Reaves proving more than capable of carrying the offense, perhaps James uses this opportunity to focus more on the defensive end.

James trusts Doncic and Reaves a lot, and could make himself the third option and play primarily as a 3-and-D wing.

James has been an excellent three-point shooter over the last few years, consistently shooting above 40% while taking multiple three-pointers in a game.

So, he can definitely stick to shooting and the odd fast break, while prioritizing his play on the defensive end with Marcus Smart.