After a pair of frustrating seasons in Memphis and Washington, Marcus Smart is eager to return to his top form with the Lakers this season.
At his peak, Marcus Smart was one of the top defenders in the league. Even before he won Defensive Player of the Year in 2022, Smart had the reputation as one of the toughest players on that end of the floor.
However, over the last two seasons, Smart has faded into the background. A trade to Memphis did not pan out for the Grizzlies and they salary-dumped him to the Wizards midway through last season.
Back in a winning situation after signing a two-year deal with the Lakers, Smart is ready to compete at a high level once again. Speaking to the media for the first time on Tuesday, Smart discussed his feelings about joining a contender once more (h/t Dave McMenamin, ESPN).
“I’m very motivated. The last two years for me was, in my eyes, a disappointment. Injuries kind of stopped me and held me back. But, like I told my wife and my family, everything happens for a reason. And it’s funny that 12 years ago, I could have been here and now it’s full circle and I’m here.”
Smart was a high-level contributor at his best in Boston. After wandering around the league in recent seasons, he comes to LA looking to recapture that level of play.
In some ways, his arrival in LA feels like another former Celtics point guard in Rajon Rondo. While their games are not alike, there is an element of a veteran guard coming to LA looking to revitalize his career that exists with both.
Injuries to his hand and ankle contributed to his lack of production. Considering the uncommon nature of the injuries, that could be a source for optimism that he can get back to something close to his best.
That best version of Smart would be ideal for the Lakers. He was a high-level perimeter defender who did enough things offensively to more than keep him on the floor. It’s unreasonable to think he can be that player again, but how close he can get to that version will be the biggest determining factor in how successful his time in LA will be.
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