NBA Trade Rumors: Los Angeles Lakers might chase $76,487,996 Washington Wizards superstar to bolster squad around Luka Doncic and LeBron James
LeBron James and Luka Doncic (Image via Getty Images)
The
Los Angeles Lakers
' defensive flaws were exposed in the playoffs—particularly their inability to slow down elite guards. While Luka Doncic anchored the paint, the perimeter defense often collapsed, leaving opponents with open lanes and easy shots.
If the Lakers want to contend next season, they'll need a lockdown defender who can disrupt opposing backcourts. Enter
Marcus Smart
—the former Defensive Player of the Year, whose tenacity and leadership could be exactly what L.A. needs.
But is he worth the risk? Smart's recent injury history and hefty contract raise questions about whether he's still the same game. A proposed trade would send Jarred Vanderbilt, Gabe Vincent, and a second-round pick to the Washington Wizards in exchange for Smart.
Would this move fix the Lakers' biggest weakness, or would it be another costly gamble? Let's break it down.
Why the Los Angeles Lakers Need Marcus Smart
The
Los Angeles Lakers
' lack of a reliable point-of-attack (POA) defender hurt them in critical moments. Opposing guards consistently broke down their defense, leading to easy baskets or open shots. Marcus Smart, known for his relentless defense and leadership, could be the solution.
Fade Away World proposed a trade
where the Lakers would send Jarred Vanderbilt, Gabe Vincent, and the No.
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55 pick in the 2025 NBA Draft to Washington in exchange for Smart.
As the original article states: 'Marcus Smart, the 2022 Defensive Player of the Year, brings tenacity and leadership to any team he joins. In the 2024–25 season, he averaged 9.0 points, 2.1 rebounds, and 3.2 assists per game with the Washington Wizards. His defensive intensity and experience could provide the Los Angeles Lakers with a much-needed perimeter stopper.' (H/t: Sporting News)
Smart's Recent Performance and Injury Concerns
Marcus Smart (Image via Getty)
While Smart's defensive reputation is strong, his production has dipped since his peak with the
Boston Celtics
, where he earned three All-Defensive Team selections. Injuries have also been a concern:
- Played only 54 games since leaving Boston in 2022-23.
- Part of a salary dump trade from Memphis to Washington.
- Currently on a four-year, $76.5 million deal.
The Lakers must weigh whether his defensive impact outweighs the risk of his injury history.
Trade Breakdown: What the Lakers Would Give Up
The proposed deal involves:
Lakers Send
Wizards Send
Jarred Vanderbilt
Marcus Smart
Gabe Vincent
2025 2nd-round pick (No. 55)
Pros of the Trade
- Elite Perimeter Defense: Smart can guard the best opposing guards, reducing pressure on LeBron James and Luka Doncic.
- Playoff Experience: Smart's leadership and toughness would help in high-stakes games.
- Salary Flexibility: Moving Vanderbilt and Vincent clears cap space for future moves.
Cons of the Trade
- Injury Risk: Smart's recent health issues raise concerns about his availability.
- Offensive Limitations: His scoring has declined, which may not help the Lakers' offensive struggles.
- Contract Length: His $76 million deal could limit future roster flexibility.
Should the Los Angeles Lakers Pull the Trigger?
If Marcus Smart stays healthy, he could be a perfect fit for the Lakers' defensive needs.
However, given his recent injury history and declining offensive numbers, the front office must carefully evaluate whether he's worth the assets.
As
Jon Conahan noted in the original article
, 'Factor that in with some of the injuries he's dealt with... it's tough to justify the Lakers giving up too much for him.'
Also read:
NBA Trade Rumors: Los Angeles Lakers predicted to acquire $61,980,000 superstar to support LeBron James and Luka Doncic after crippling playoff exit
The Los Angeles Lakers need defensive upgrades, but they shouldn't overpay for a player who may not be available when it matters most. Would you make this trade if you were Rob Pelinka? Let us know your thoughts.
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