Marcus Smart Signs Contract With the Los Angeles Lakers

STILLWATER – The former NBA Defensive Player of the Year is headed to the City of Angels. It was announced on Saturday former Oklahoma State standout Marcus Smart has signed a two-year, $11 million contract with the Los Angeles Lakers after clearing waivers.

Smart spent this past season with the Memphis Grizzlies and the Washington Wizards. 

He played in only 20 games to start the season with the Grizzlies, before being moved to Washington at the trade deadline. Things didn’t get any better for Smart has he played in just 15 games off the bench, averaging 9.3 points, 2.5 assists and 1.1 steals in just under 19 minutes a game.

The Lakers, who are betting on Smart being their sixth man, are hoping he can stay healthy. Smart’s dealt with a variety of injuries over the years.

So, for at least the time being, Smart will get to play with one of the GOATs in LeBron James before he retires, and Luka Doncic. All reports indicate the Lakers are looking to make a run at both Giannis Antetokounmpo and Nikola Jokic in 2027, hoping Smart can help along the way.

Smart was named the NBA Defensive Player of the Year in 2022 and is a three-time first team All-Defensive selection. That’s what the Lakers are hoping Smart brings the LA.