Oct 30, 2023; Memphis, Tennessee, USA; Dallas Mavericks guard Luka Doncic (77) dribbles as Memphis Grizzlies guard Marcus Smart (36) defends during the first half at FedExForum. Mandatory Credit: Petre Thomas-Imagn Images Petre Thomas-Imagn Images

Lakers' Luka Doncic Recruited Marcus Smart to LA

Originally posted on Los Angeles Lakers on SI
By Nelson Espinal | Last updated Jul 20, 2025 3:30 PM ET

According to ESPN's Shams Charania, Los Angeles Lakers star Luka Doncic recruited new signing Marcus Smart during the offseason.

Smart agreed to a contract buyout with the Washington Wizards, letting him become an unrestricted free agent after he clears waivers.

Charania reported that Smart had already come to an agreement with the Lakers. He will sign a two-year, $11 million deal with the Lakers, though the second year is a player option.

Additionally, Doncic reached out to Smart during his free agency and expressed interest in playing with the guard. The Lakers star reportedly made it clear to Smart that he wanted to team up with him.

Smart, a three-time All-Defense first team guard, will have a player option on his new Lakers deal to enter a more flush 2026 free agency, sources said. Point of attack defender was a position of need for L.A. as well -- with Luka Doncic recruiting and reaching out to Smart. https://t.co/POZfSea5sU
— Shams Charania (@ShamsCharania) July 19, 2025

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Since there are few teams with cap space, Smart was forced to settle for a player-exception-based contract in free agency. The player option in his new deal allows for flexibility next season, where he can opt out and test the market again for a longer-term contract.

The Lakers were not the only team interested in Smart, as the Phoenix Suns and Milwaukee Bucks also pursued him, but ended up falling short.

Smart comes into Los Angeles with a clear role. He will provide perimeter defense to help out Doncic and Austin Reaves with defensive responsibilities.

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On offense, his 3-point shooting is inconsistent, but he can handle the ball and playmake for others, while also hitting the offensive glass.

In his 11-year career, Smart averaged 10.6 points, 4.6 assists, and 3.4 rebounds. Also, he manages to grab 1.6 steals a game, highlighting his ability to cause havoc on the perimeter.

The Lakers are hoping Smart can stay on the court to make an impact — something the former Defensive Player of the Year hasn't done in the past couple of seasons. He only played 54 games over the last two seasons.

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This article first appeared on FanNation All Lakers and was syndicated with permission.

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