Marcus Smart Credits Luka Doncic for Joining Lakers, Eyes Championship

In a significant move for the Los Angeles Lakers, Marcus Smart, the 2022 NBA Defensive Player of the Year, officially joined the team, attributing his decision to superstar Luka Doncic during a press conference held in El Segundo, California, on July 22, 2025. Smart, who previously played for the Boston Celtics before a brief stint with the Washington Wizards, signed a two-year, $11 million contract after clearing waivers.

During the introductory news conference, Smart emphasized the importance of Doncic’s recruitment efforts. "When you get a guy like Luka calling... checking on you, trying to see where you're at, to see if you want to come join something special that he's trying to cook up over here," Smart stated. His words reflect the growing camaraderie and strategic collaboration within the Lakers' roster, which has seen significant changes this offseason.

Smart's addition is seen as a crucial enhancement to the Lakers' defensive capabilities, particularly at the point of attack. This comes in the wake of Dorian Finney-Smith's departure to the Houston Rockets, leaving a gap that Smart is expected to fill effectively. Notably, with 108 career playoff games under his belt, Smart's experience will prove invaluable for a relatively new Lakers squad that traded for Doncic in February and is under the guidance of head coach JJ Redick, who is entering his second season.

Reflecting on his role, Smart expressed his commitment to contributing in his distinctive manner. "Just to be me," he asserted, highlighting the importance of his tenacity, leadership, and basketball IQ. Moreover, he praised Doncic's determination in recruiting him, suggesting a strong bond and mutual respect between the two players.

Doncic, who has two years remaining on his contract with the Lakers, could be offered a lucrative four-year, $222 million extension starting August 2, 2025. Smart’s recruitment by Doncic is perceived as a positive indicator of the latter’s long-term commitment to the franchise, signaling a potential bright future for the Lakers.

This offseason, the Lakers have welcomed several new players, including center Deandre Ayton and forward Jake LaRavia, alongside second-round draft pick Adou Thiero, aiming to bolster their performance after a disappointing exit in the first round of the playoffs last season. The Lakers finished with a 50-32 record, earning the No. 3 seed in a highly competitive Western Conference before being eliminated by the Minnesota Timberwolves.

Smart is optimistic about the Lakers' prospects for the upcoming season, stating, "I think we stack right up there with the best of them. And I think we can [compete]. Our ceiling is high. I think there's no ceiling. I think if we all lock in and come and do what we're supposed to do, we can have a real good shot at it."

The Lakers' commitment to strengthening their roster comes at a time when the Western Conference is evolving, with formidable teams like the defending champion Oklahoma City Thunder and revamped rosters for the Denver Nuggets and Houston Rockets. Smart’s determination to bounce back from injuries that limited his playtime in recent years underlines his motivation to succeed in Los Angeles.

"I'm very motivated," he remarked, reflecting on the challenges he faced over the past two seasons. "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."

As the Lakers prepare for the upcoming season, the synergy between Smart, Doncic, and the rest of the roster may well define their potential success in an increasingly competitive league.