Marcus Smart to Join Lakers Following Wizards Contract Buyout

In a significant development for the NBA, guard Marcus Smart has reached an agreement for 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. This news was first reported by Shams Charania of ESPN on July 19, 2025. Smart, who was named the 2022 Defensive Player of the Year and has secured a spot on the All-Defense first team three times, is poised to make a notable return to the playoff stage after missing the postseason in the last two years while with Memphis and Washington.

The context surrounding Smart's move is pivotal, as he has had a challenging couple of seasons, playing only 54 games due to injuries, including a notable issue with his right finger last season. His playing time has also dwindled to a career-low average of 20 minutes per game during the 2024-25 season. The Lakers, who have been in pursuit of a point-of-attack defender following the departure of Dorian Finney-Smith, view Smart as a critical addition to their roster. Luka Doncic, an All-NBA star for the Lakers, reportedly reached out to Smart to express his desire to play alongside the two-way stalwart, emphasizing the importance of this acquisition for the team.

The Lakers are expected to create the necessary roster spot for Smart by waiving guard Shake Milton, whose contract would have become fully guaranteed soon. Milton, who was acquired in a trade from the Brooklyn Nets, averaged 3.9 points and made one start during his tenure with the Lakers.

This transaction not only highlights Smart's potential resurgence but also reflects the Lakers’ strategic moves in the current offseason. According to Dr. Emily Thompson, a sports management expert at the University of Southern California, "The Lakers are making a calculated decision to strengthen their defensive capabilities, especially in light of their recent playoff absences. Smart’s ability to guard multiple positions could significantly enhance their defensive schemes."

The acquisition of Smart is indicative of a broader trend in the NBA where teams are prioritizing defensive players in their strategies. As noted by Dr. James Wilson, a professor of sports analytics at Stanford University, “The value of defensive prowess cannot be overstated, especially in a league that is becoming increasingly offensive. Marcus Smart epitomizes what teams are looking for in a modern defender.”

Looking ahead, the implications of Smart joining the Lakers could be far-reaching. With his experience and defensive skills, he may play a pivotal role in the Lakers’ quest for a championship, a goal they have been striving to achieve since winning the title in 2020. As the team prepares for the upcoming season, the spotlight will be on how Smart integrates into the Lakers' system and whether he can help return the storied franchise to its former glory in the competitive landscape of the NBA.

In conclusion, the signing of Marcus Smart not only adds depth to the Lakers' roster but also raises expectations for the upcoming season. The Lakers are banking on Smart's experience and defensive acumen to bolster their chances in a league that continues to evolve towards high-scoring offenses. As the team undergoes these changes, fans and analysts alike will be watching closely to see how this strategic acquisition unfolds in the context of the Lakers' championship aspirations.