In a major NBA offseason shakeup, veteran guard Marcus Smart and the Washington Wizards have agreed to a contract buyout, freeing the defensive ace to explore new opportunities. All signs are now pointing to the Los Angeles Lakers as the frontrunners to land Smart—a move that could dramatically reshape their backcourt for the upcoming season.
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💥 Why the Buyout Now?
Marcus Smart was traded to the Wizards last season as part of a larger rebuilding effort, but it was clear from the beginning that he wasn’t a long-term fit. With the team prioritizing young talent and draft capital, Smart’s veteran leadership—though valuable—didn’t align with the franchise’s future direction.
Rather than keep him on the roster, both parties agreed to a mutual contract termination, allowing Smart to pursue a contender.
🎯 Lakers Eyeing Marcus Smart
The Los Angeles Lakers have emerged as the most likely destination, with sources close to the situation suggesting that negotiations are already underway. The Lakers are looking for
- Defensive consistency on the perimeter
- Veteran leadership
- Playoff experience
- Someone who can play off LeBron and AD
Smart checks every box.
🏀 What Marcus Smart Brings to the Table
Elite Defense
Smart is one of the best defensive guards in the league. He won the 2022 NBA Defensive Player of the Year—a rare feat for a guard—and is known for his hustle, grit, and ability to guard multiple positions.
Veteran Savvy
After spending nearly a decade with the Celtics, Smart brings deep playoff experience, including an NBA Finals appearance in 2022. His leadership in the locker room is often praised by teammates and coaches alike.
Underrated Playmaking
While not an elite scorer, Smart is a capable passer and floor general who can orchestrate an offense when needed. His ability to play both on and off the ball makes him a valuable rotation piece.
📉 What This Means for the Wizards
Washington is clearly all-in on their rebuild. By moving off Smart’s contract, they:
- Free up salary cap space
- Create room for younger guards like Jordan Poole and Tyus Jones
- Position themselves better for the 2025 NBA Draft
Expect the Wizards to be aggressive sellers as the trade deadline nears.
🟣 What This Means for the Lakers
If the Lakers secure Smart, it would be one of the savviest pickups of the offseason.
Imagine this possible rotation:
- PG: Marcus Smart
- SG: Austin Reaves
- SF: LeBron James
- PF: Rui Hachimura
- C: Anthony Davis
Smart’s defense alongside LeBron’s vision and Davis’s rim protection? That could be a championship formula.
📢 Reactions from Around the League
NBA Twitter exploded at the news:
“Smart to the Lakers? That’s a defensive problem for the rest of the league.”
– @NBADailyBuzz
“Perfect role player to pair with stars. Lakers just got real.”
– @LakeShowInsider
Former teammates have also shown their support. Jayson Tatum tweeted a heart emoji and said, “Go eat, my brother.”
📅 What’s Next?
The Lakers are expected to finalize a deal with Marcus Smart in the coming days. He’ll likely sign a veteran’s minimum or mid-level exception, depending on how the front office navigates the cap.
Training camp is just weeks away, and Smart could be donning the purple and gold by then.
Conclusion
Marcus Smart’s move from the Wizards via buyout has instantly made waves across the league—and the Lakers are poised to benefit the most. With his defense, experience, and leadership, he could be the missing piece that propels the Lakers into serious title contention again.
All eyes are now on Los Angeles. Will Smart finally help LeBron capture that fifth ring?
FAQs
1. Why did Marcus Smart leave the Wizards?
The Wizards are rebuilding and agreed to a mutual buyout with Smart to give him a chance to join a contender.
2. Has Marcus Smart signed with the Lakers yet?
As of now, he hasn’t officially signed, but the Lakers are strong favorites to land him.
3. What role would Smart play in LA?
Smart would likely start at point guard or come off the bench as a key defender and leader.
4. Did Marcus Smart win any major awards?
Yes, he was named NBA Defensive Player of the Year in 2022.
5. Could other teams still sign Smart?
Technically yes, but the Lakers are leading the race. Only a surprise offer could change that.