Lakers Signing Marcus Smart in Blockbuster $11 Million Deal

The Los Angeles Lakers agreed to a deal with guard Marcus Smart, who was bought out by the Washington Wizards, according to ESPN's Shams Charania

Smart is signing a two-year, $11 million after he clears waivers.

The veteran guard is a three-time All-Defensive team player who provides experience and consistent, high-effort play on both ends of the court.

BREAKING: Marcus Smart has agreed to a contract buyout with the Washington Wizards and intends to sign a two-year, $11 million deal with the Los Angeles Lakers after clearing waivers, sources tell ESPN. A return to a grand stage for the 2022 NBA Defensive Player of the Year. pic.twitter.com/8g9Bxzz11E
— Shams Charania (@ShamsCharania) July 19, 2025

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Smart enters his 12th NBA season as a grizzled veteran, though he is still only 31 years old, leaving him in the middle of his prime.

He was drafted by the Boston Celtics and played nine seasons with the Lakers' rival. On the defensive end, he defends at the point-of-attack, meaning he pressures on the ball and tends to stick on his match-up.

Smart reads the game well, which allows him to create turnovers by entering passing lanes and having good timing on gambles.

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For his career, Smart averages 10.6 points, 3.4 rebounds, and 4.6 assists. He shoots 32.4 percent from deep, but can hit clutch shots in key moments.

On the Lakers, he should offer the team defensive prowess that fits well alongside Luka Doncic and Austin Reaves, who aren't elite defenders. Smart should guard the best offensive player on the opposing team.

A key for the Lakers is that Smart specializes in avoiding switches on defense, which should lead to fewer mismatches that put Reaves or Doncic in uncomfortable positions.

Over the last three years, Smart hasn't played more than 61 games in a single season, as he faced several injuries which have lingered.

The Lakers will need him healthy and ready to play a key role on the team. If he does stay healthy next season, he becomes a smart signing for the franchise.

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