Lakers add defensive anchor Marcus Smart

The Los Angeles Lakers have bolstered their defensive identity by signing veteran guard Marcus Smart to a two-year, $11 million contract – including a player option for 2026-27 – after his buyout from the Wizards, first reported by Shams Charania and confirmed by ESPN and NBA.com.

Smart, the 2022 NBA Defensive Player of the Year and three-time All-Defensive First Team selection, played just 15 games with Washington last season due to injuries but brings championship-level tenacity. At his introductory press conference, he credited Luka Doncic for recruiting him to L.A., saying, “For him to say that he can really use my help, that meant a lot.”

Lakers President Rob Pelinka highlighted Smart’s fit: “He epitomizes what it means to prioritize winning above all else,” a reflection of Los Angeles’s new two-way emphasis. The move fortifies perimeter defense alongside additions like De’Andre Ayton and versatile two-way wing Jake LaRavia, solidifying a rotation built around LeBron James, Doncic, and Austin Reaves. 

With Smart’s arrival also came two-way signings of Christian Koloko and Chris Manon, deepening roster development.

However, the contract pushes the Lakers to the first apron of the luxury tax. To accommodate Smart under the hard cap, the team waived Shake Milton and Jordan Goodwin – moves that squeeze every dollar of their non-taxpayer mid-level exception. 

ANALYSIS: This is a defensive upgrade for the Lakers as Smart is arguably one of the best on-ball perimeter defenders in the league, a major asset for guarding elite wings. Moreover, Smart’s playoff readiness, leadership, and championship mindset provide a polished voice in big-game rotations. Now the Lakers have maxed out their non-taxpayer exception just to fit Smart, limiting their flexibility without further salary relief. 

Adding Marcus Smart addresses one of the Lakers’ offseason priorities – elite perimeter defense and gritty leadership. With Doncic and James anchoring the offense, Smart’s arrival completes a stronger, deeper core poised for a serious title run. Cap-wise, it’s a tight squeeze – but one that signals L.A. is all-in on contending now.