Feb 9, 2026; Los Angeles, California, USA; Los Angeles Lakers guard Marcus Smart (36) shoots the ball against Oklahoma City Thunder center Chet Holmgren (7) during the fourth quarter at Crypto.com Arena. Mandatory Credit: Kiyoshi Mio-Imagn Images Kiyoshi Mio-Imagn Images

Lakers’ Injury Situation Raises Eyebrows After Latest Marcus Smart Update

Originally posted on Los Angeles Lakers on SI
By Ryan Ward | Last updated Apr 1, 2026 6:19 PM ET

The Los Angeles Lakers are one of the hottest teams in the NBA right now, with the storied franchise peaking at the right time with the NBA playoffs right around the corner.

However, the team has been playing without arguably its best defender, veteran guard Marcus Smart, who has been battling a right ankle contusion and has been sidelined for five straight games.

Marcus Smart Ruled Out vs. Thunder

Unfortunately for the Lakers, Smart will be out for a sixth consecutive game, as he has been ruled out for Thursday's road matchup against the defending NBA champion Oklahoma City Thunder on the road at the Paycom Center.

Marcus Smart will miss a sixth straight game with a right ankle contusion pic.twitter.com/ruHabJ0LnQ
— Ryan Ward (@RyanWardLA) April 1, 2026

At this point, with Smart set to miss his sixth straight game, there's concern about his status moving forward, with the playoffs set to get underway on April 18.

Sign up to our free newsletter and follow us on YouTube, Facebook, X/Twitter and Instagram for the latest news.