Lakers Could Acquire Marcus Smart In Exchange For D'Angelo Russell

The Los Angeles Lakers are reportedly exploring a blockbuster trade that could send Marcus Smart to LA in exchange for D’Angelo Russell’s expiring contract, according to Jake Fischer of Bleacher Report. The proposed deal could address significant needs for both the Lakers and the Memphis Grizzlies while shaking up the Western Conference. The Lakers’ defensive struggles and the Grizzlies’ offensive limitations make this trade a compelling solution for both franchises.

"Marcus Smart would certainly help on the pe rimeter defensive side of things. Smart would in theory be someone who could fit right into that D'Angelo Russell salary." 

"I would think that you're going to have to match that type of pick capital in order for the Grizzlies to part ways with someone who was just recently Defensive Player of the Year."

The potential trade would involve the Lakers sending D’Angelo Russell, rookie Jalen Hood-Schifino, and a 2029 lottery-protected first-round pick to Memphis in exchange for Marcus Smart. The salaries align well, with Smart earning $20.2 million and Russell’s expiring contract worth $18.7 million. Adding Hood-Schifino’s rookie-scale contract ensures the financial feasibility of the trade.

Lakers receive: Marcus Smart ($20,210,285)

Grizzlies receive : D'Angelo Russell ($18,692,307), Jalen Hood-Schifino ($3,879,840), 2029 First-Round pick (Lottery-Protected)

The Los Angeles Lakers' defensive struggles this season have been a major concern, despite their 11-7 record and a respectable position in the Western Conference standings. They currently rank 26th in defensive rating (117.8), a glaring weakness for a team aiming for championship contention. This poor defensive efficiency has often left them vulnerable in close games, especially against offensively potent teams in the West.

In terms of defensive rebounding, the Lakers sit at 25th in the league, indicating a significant struggle to secure possessions and limit opponents' second c hances. This issue has been compounded by their inability to contest shots effectively, as they rank 25th in blocks per game, a surprisingly low mark for a team with a dominant interior presence like Anthony Davis. 

The Lakers' perimeter defense is another area of concern. They rank 23rd in steals per game, which reflects a lack of disruption against opposing ball handlers and a failure to generate turnovers that can fuel fast breaks. Furthermore, their inability to prevent transition scoring is evident in their 28th rank in fastbreak points allowed. Opponents have consistently taken advantage of these weaknesses, turning Lakers’ mistakes into easy points.

Another pressing issue is their inability to defend the paint effectively. The Lakers rank 26th in points allowed in the paint, which underscores their struggle to guard against interior scoring. Additionally, they are ranked 26th in second-chance points allowed, revealing a lack of effort or coordination in boxing out and grabbing critical rebounds.

Smart’s defensive prowess could complement the Lakers’ interior anchor, Anthony Davis, while taking pressure off aging superstar LeBron James. His ability to defend multiple positions and bring energy to the floor could reignite the Lakers’ defensive identity. Although Smart’s offensive numbers this season—9.4 points, 2.6 rebounds, and 4.1 assists on 38.0% shooting—are modest, his leadership and defensive acumen could outweigh his scoring limitations.

For Memphis, the deal addresses their offensive shortcomings. The Grizzlies have struggled to generate consistent scoring outside of Ja Morant and Desmond Bane. Acquiring Russell, who averaged 18.0 points and 6.3 assists last season while shooting 41.5% from three, could elevate their offensive versatility. Russell’s ability to create his own shot and facilitate plays could make Memphis a more dynamic team.

Additionally, Jalen Hood-Schifino offers the Grizzlies a young, high-upside prospect who could develop into a valuable rotation player. The inclusion of a future first-round pick gives Memphis long-term flexibility, potentially helping them rebuild if their current core fails to contend.

Both teams take on risks with this trade. For the Lakers, parting with Russell means losing a capable scorer and playmaker, which could hurt their offensive consistency. However, the addition of Smart could address their most pressing need: improving a defense ranked among the league’s worst.

For the Grizzlies, trading Smart less than a year after acquiring him for two first-round picks could be seen as a step backward defensively. However, their system already boasts strong defensive players like Jaren Jackson Jr., and adding Russell could provide the offensive boost they need to complement their core.

The Lakers are underachieving compared to expectations. Adding Smart could help solidify their defense and make them a more balanced team. Meanwhile, the Grizzlies could benefit from Russell’s offensive skill set, especially as Ja Morant reintegrates into the lineup after his return from injury.

At Fadeaway World, we had previously predicted this exact mock trade that sends the  Lakers a former Defensive Player of the Year, Marcus Smart, in exchange for D'Angelo Russell and draft assets.

This trade, while speculative, has the potential to address glaring weaknesses for both teams, setting the stage for a more competitive Western Conference battle. Whether the two sides can agree on draft compensation remains the biggest hurdle to making this deal a reality.