Marcus Smart Proves Celtics Wrong Again
Marcus Smart continues to impress in the NBA, showcasing his skills after being traded by the Boston Celtics. In 2023, the Celtics opted to part ways with Smart to acquire Kristaps Porzingis. This decision came after Smart, a three-time first-team All-Defense player and 2022 Defensive Player of the Year, showed signs of decline. Fans were heartbroken as he left, but Boston believed securing a versatile big man was worth the risk.
Smart’s Impact in Los Angeles
After his stint in Memphis, where health concerns persisted, Smart was traded to the Washington Wizards in 2025. Subsequently, he was bought out and joined the Los Angeles Lakers, recruited by Luka Dončić, who recognized the team’s need for defensive prowess. This move allowed Smart to demonstrate his capabilities with a new team.
Current Performance and Statistics
- Points per game: 9.8
- Assists per game: 2.8
- Rebounds per game: 2.6
- Steals per game: 1.4
- Minutes per game: 27.3
While these numbers have dipped compared to his time in Boston, his role with the Lakers is different. The team boasts playmakers like LeBron James and Austin Reaves, allowing Smart to focus on defense. He remains a critical player, known for drawing charges and enhancing team defense.
Defensive Statistics
The Lakers have shown a notable improvement defensively with Smart on the court. They are 6.9 points per 100 possessions better when he plays. However, without him, their defensive rating drops significantly:
| Scenario | Defensive Rating |
|---|---|
| With Smart | Plus-5.4 |
| Without Smart | Negative-2.9 |
Lakers’ Current Standing
As of now, the Lakers hold the fifth seed in the competitive Western Conference. They have navigated through injuries, particularly integrating LeBron after he was sidelined for 14 games due to a nerve issue. Despite these challenges, the Lakers remain a formidable team, largely due to Smart’s contributions.
Celtics and Smart’s Legacy
The Boston Celtics enjoyed a long playoff run with Smart, making it to the NBA Finals in 2022 and consistently contending in the Eastern Conference. While the Celtics have found success post-trade, it’s apparent that Smart continues to prove their decision wrong. At 31, he exhibits resilience and skill, solidifying his legacy as an integral player.
Brad Stevens, the Celtics’ decision-maker, may need to reconsider his assessment of Smart. As time progresses, Smart’s ongoing impact in Los Angeles signals that he has much left to contribute, reinforcing his essential role in the league.
