Lakers Insider Suggests Bold Change for Starting Lineup

Lakers Could Pull Off Intriguing Defensive Experiment

The Lakers were willing to change their starting lineups for defense before, and next season—should they choose to start Smart—would be no different. Although Hachimura has made his case to start as a reliable 3-and-D forward, his playing out of position on defense has led to questions over his role next year.

Smart would boost a group full of offensive-minded players and give the Lakers some much-needed point-of-attack defense, especially with his ability to guard multiple positions. That defensive versatility would be critical for a lineup hindered by Doncic and Reaves’ limitations. Putting Smart with the starters would also allow someone like Jarred Vanderbilt—another capable wing stopper—to anchor the second unit’s defense.

What About Offense?

Although Smart may not match Hachimura’s scoring output, he can still be a promising facilitator next to three elite scorers and an athletic, bruising big man. Additionally, Smart is a decent shot creator and respectable marksman from three. Despite last year’s 39% mark coming on low volume, he can expect the perimeter looks to increase next to James, Doncic and Reaves. In addition to a blistering defense, Smart would add a unique dimension to a first five that has two future Hall-of-Famers and a breakout third star.

The lineup change could also benefit the Lakers’ bench as much as their starters, with Hachimura’s scoring likely to jolt a second unit that ranked 29th in bench points per game.

The Last Word on Marcus Smart’s Role with the Lakers

Smart’s role in LA is contingent on his health, which has negatively affected his play in the last few seasons. However, his elite defense and playmaking potential give him a worthy case to crack JJ Redick’s starting lineup.