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Report reveals why Marcus Smart signed with Lakers

Originally posted on Larry Brown Sports | By Grey Papke | Last updated Jul 19, 2025 7:47 PM ET

Marcus Smart had some big reasons for signing with the Los Angeles Lakers once he became a free agent.

Smart agreed to join the Lakers on Saturday after finalizing a buyout agreement with the Washington Wizards. According to ESPN’s Shams Charania, Smart also received serious interest from the Phoenix Suns and Milwaukee Bucks.

However, Lakers star Luka Doncic personally reached out to Smart to recruit him to the team.

In addition, Smart clearly valued the path to playing time the Lakers offered him. Stefan Bondy of the New York Post reported that the New York Knicks had checked in on Smart, but he preferred the Lakers because of greater opportunity.

Knicks had checked in on Marcus Smart but my understanding is he desired a spot with a clearer path to playing time.

Smart is reportedly headed to the Lakers after agreeing to a buyout with the Wizards
— Stefan Bondy (@SbondyNBA) July 19, 2025

Smart remains one of the premier defensive guards in the league, though injuries have limited him to 54 games over the past two seasons. The Lakers are hoping to have him fully healthy, where he could be a significant defensive presence in their backcourt.

One fanbase in particular is really suffering from Smart’s decision to join the Lakers.

This article first appeared on Larry Brown Sports and was syndicated with permission.

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