What Marcus Smart did against Austin Reaves in LA Lakers practice is ‘going to be big’, JJ Redick was impressed

Austin Reaves reflects on Marcus Smart intensity during LA Lakers practice duel

Austin Reaves spoke to reporters after the LA Lakers’ latest practice session. When discussing playing against Marcus Smart, Reaves was in awe of what he saw.

Reaves saw Smart’s signature intensity on the defensive end after being guarded by him, which he thinks will be key for the Lakers next season.

On top of that, Smart’s experience and communication also made an impression on the young guard.

“He guarded me a little bit in the first practice. You still feel that pressure, that intensity that he brings on the defensive end. That’s going to be big for us. We need that.

“We need him to be the best version of himself with that communication that he brings, especially defensively.

“He’s been in the league for a while; he knows how to win at the highest level. Very excited to have him.”

JJ Redick impressed with Marcus Smart’s intensity

Austin Reaves wasn’t the only member of the LA Lakers who took notice of Marcus Smart’s intensity. JJ Redick praised the former All-Defensive team guard for how he sustained his energy.

“He was awesome. Given the workload of today, I was impressed he was able to sustain his level of intensity as long as he did.”

Smart gives the Lakers a unique and crucial dynamic off the bench. Their roster hasn’t had an on-ball defender of his caliber off the bench since Alex Caruso’s departure in 2021.

On top of that, Smart has crucial playoff experience, even playing in the NBA Finals a few years ago. If he can return to his peak form, the Lakers might have a brilliant and balanced squad next season.

As things stand, Smart is going to come off the bench, as JJ Redick has his preferred Lakers starting lineup. But with some impressive performances, Smart could earn a starting role very soon.